"the People's Paths!" Cherokee News Path - Cherokees to Host Holiday 5K Run

"**2007 Cherokee National Holiday 5K Run**"

TAHLEQUAH, OK — It’s time to lace up your running shoes for the Cherokee National Holiday 5K run. Held in conjunction with the 56th Annual Cherokee National Holiday, the run will start on Saturday, August 30, at 7:30 a.m., on the east side of the Cherokee Nation Tribal Complex near Tahlequah.

“I have the pleasure of working with a great volunteer staff that will be ready and prepared to welcome the many participants that take part in the run every year,” said Sherry Parks, event coordinator. “For non-competitive runners we will also offer a one-mile Fun Run.”

Early registration by Monday, August 25, is $15 dollars. After August 25, the entry fee will be $18 dollars. Registration will begin at 6:30 a.m. the day of the run. All runners must sign a waiver of liability form to enter either event.

The first 350 entrants will receive a free t-shirt. Trophies will be awarded to the overall male and female finishers of the 5K Run. Winners in each age group will receive an Olympic-style medal.

The Cherokee National Holiday has been held since 1953 in tribute to the signing of the 1839 Cherokee Constitution. It has grown into one of the largest events in Oklahoma, attracting more than 90,000 visitors from across the world.

Each year a theme is chosen for the Cherokee National Holiday that celebrates Cherokee Nation’s rich heritage and culture. The 2008 theme is "di ni yo tli u na li s de lv do di, Planting the Seed Corn for our Children's Future."

“In this theme, we honor all the Cherokee parents and grandparents whose everyday actions are dedicated to establishing strong, self-sufficient children and communities. Cherokee community members have great respect for these individuals who care and plan for the Cherokee Nation’s leaders of tomorrow,” said Smith.

For more information contact Sherry Parks, by phone: 918-458-7661 or by email: sherry-parks@cherokee.org.