Great Urban Race coming to L.A. to benefit St. Jude Hospital

It’s part scavenger hunt, part wandering party and a whole lot of fun. The Great Urban Race will be taking Los Angeles by storm on Saturday, March 20 as participants navigate around the city solving clues and completing various challenges.

Teams of two will solve 12 clues and complete physical and mental challenges by walking, running or using public transportation. Participants may find themselves scavenging for random items, deciphering puzzles or completing a physical challenge or game. The first 25 teams to complete the race will have the opportunity to compete in the National Championship race in Las Vegas for a chance at the $10,000 prize.

“The Great Urban Race is a fun way to discover all that Los Angeles has to offer,” said Race Director Joe Reynolds. “For those looking for an exciting and active Saturday afternoon, the Great Urban Race will satisfy the desire for a new adventure.”

All participants are encouraged to sign up to become St. Jude Heroes and help to raise funds in support of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital®, one of the world’s premier pediatric cancer research centers. Prior to race day, St. Jude Heroes will raise money for the hospital by securing pledges from family and friends. In addition, for each registered St. Jude Hero, the Great Urban Race will donate $10 to St. Jude.

Since the Great Urban Race kicked off its first event in the summer of 2007, the response has been overwhelming. Many racers are now competing in various cities across the country while others have become avid local supporters. Sherri Kimmell and Leslie Kehoe, who finished first in the 2009 Atlanta race, said their strategy for the Great Urban Race was “having good ‘Googlers’, running fast and planning out the right route.”

The cost of the race is $70 per person until March 19 and $80 per person on race day. The race is open to all, however, those under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Registration begins at 11a.m. at Pershing Square Park. Race begins at noon.

For more information or to register for the event, visit www.greaturbanrace.com or contact Kelli Pribel, at (773)770-6032 kelli@redfrogevents.com.

The Great Urban Race is a wacky, urban adventure. Teams of two solve 12 clues and complete fun challenges while discovering the city in a fresh way during an exciting day. The race will visit 24 cities across the U.S. in 2010, wrapping up with a championship in Las Vegas in November. For more information or to register online, visit www.greaturbanrace.com.