Grab Your Running Shoes: FresYes Guide to April Races, Runs & Walks

Spring is one of the best times of the year to be outside in the Central Valley, especially if you’re participating in a race or run. There are a whole lot of local races taking place at this time of the year, and many are fundraisers for local charities and organizations.

From flat roads to trail runs, there’s something for all levels of ability. So grab those running shoes and get moving!

Here’s a look of some of the races, runs, and walks taking place in April.

Rock ‘N Run for Hope 10K Run and 2-mile Walk/Run, Visalia

When: Saturday, April 1

Cost: 10K – $35, 2-Mile – $25, Kids 12 & Under – Free

Sign-up: VRMhope.org

This isn’t your typical race. This fundraiser for the Visalia Rescue Mission takes place at Cutler Park and kicks off at 4:30 p.m.. There will be food trucks and a live concert featuring music by Brandon Pasion.

California Classic Weekend

When: Sunday, April 2

Cost: Half Marathon – $85, 5K – $45 (Prices increase 3/31)

Sign-up: RunSignUp.com

This one is special! The half marathon takes runners through the Fresno Chaffee Zoo and the finish line is at home plate in Chukchansi Park. The 5K doesn’t feature the run through the zoo, but does wrap up at the ballpark. If you bike ride, there are 100-, 60- and 35-mile races taking place the day before.

Run for the Children 5K

When: Sunday, April 9

Cost: $35 (Prices increase on 4/9)

Sign-up: RunSignUp.com

This race is taking place at Kearney Park in west Fresno. It’s a fundraiser for Breaking the Silence, a nonprofit dedicated to raising public awareness and prevention of child abuse. There will be chip timing.

Footloose in the Foothills 5K & 10K, Prather

When: Saturday, April 22

Cost: $35 (Prices increase 4/22)

Sign-up: RunSignUp.com

Are you ready to get a little dirty? This trail run is entirely on dirt. Participants will receive a commemorative shirt. It’s taking place at the Ruth McKenzie Table Mountain Preserve in Prather.

Run with the Heroes, 1-Mile & 5K, Madera

When: Saturday, April 22

Cost: 5K – $40, 1-Mile – $30 (Registration ends April 1)

Sign-up: RunSignUp.com

Help support Valley Children’s Hospital and the George’s Pass autism program by participating in this family-friendly race. The route is stroller and wheelchair accessible. Pancakes will be served after the race and superhero characters will be taking pictures with kids. There will be games, too!

The Papa Petrucci Vineyard 5K

When: Sunday, April 23

Cost: $35, $25 (High School & College Students), $12 (13 & under)

Sign-up: squareup.com/market/fresno-state-vit-club/

Fresno State’s Viticulture Club is hosting a race that benefits viticulture and enology scholarships and the V.E. Petrucci Library. The course takes runners through the vineyard at Fresno State.

Shinzen 2-mile Walk/Run, 5-Mile Run

When: Sunday, April 30

Cost: $30 (Prices increase 4/1)

Sign-up: RunSignUp.com

Help support the beautiful Shinzen Friendship Garden at Fresno’s Woodward Park by participating in this fundraiser race. The garden is truly one of the gems of the Central Valley. Participants will receive free entry into the Shinzen Gardens after crossing the finish line.