Before this Saturday’s parade, hundreds of runners/walkers will make history in the first-ever West Seattle Float Dodger 5K.

Online registration has just been extended – go here before midnight tonight! The race starts from California/Charlestown by West Seattle Runner (WSB sponsor), whose Tim McConnell just shared the brand-new FAQ:

Q – Will I miss the parade if I run?
A – No! The race is before the parade; you will have plenty of time to finish and watch the parade. We have even secured a parade-viewing area for runners and their families near the finish line.

Q – Can kids run too?
A – Sure! We even have kid-sized shirts for those participating. Strollers, pets, etc. are all welcome to be a part of the inaugural race.

Q – I want to do it but I’m afraid of getting run over by a float.
A – The floats on the course will not be moving! We will be running around them on the first turn. The race is 75 minutes before the parade, not during. The name Float Dodger was meant to be catchy; it does not mean you have to run around, behind or away from moving vehicles!

Q – Where does my entry fee go?
A- Funds from the Float Dodger 5K go to help a number of organizations. Part of the money goes to the American Legion Post 160. They are the group that organizes and puts on the parade. That money will be used to help pay for the road closure, which continues to get more expensive. Your entry fee will help keep the parade a part of West Seattle’s summer events. The remaining money goes to the West Seattle Rotary and the Lymphoma/Leukemia Society. It is a not-for-profit event.

Q – Sounds fun but I don’t run.
A – A 5K is 3.1 miles. That really isn’t very far. The winner of the race will probably finish in less then 15 minutes. The average walker can do it in less than 45 minutes. Think of walking from Admiral Safeway to Uptown Espresso and back, plus there will be around 1,000 people cheering you on. Fun, easy, healthy, and a good way to give charity. Plus you get a shirt that says you did it.

The 5K starts at 9:45 am Saturday from California/Charlestown. See you there!