Sacramento Moustache Run lets racers zoom and groom for a good cause

Hair we go again! Prepare your best handlebars and goatees for the second annual Sacramento Moustache Run, a 5K race on Nov. 8 benefiting the American Cancer Society.

Last year’s popular inaugural race was held at Sutter’s Landing, and this year, the event will be held along West Sacramento’s River Walk Park. Little ones will be able to take part in a free, half-mile kids' fun run, while music acts like D.J. Kittie will keep runners pumped along the route.

Come donning your best (real or stick-on) facial hair, as the Moustache Run will hold contests in different categories like “Best Kids Moustache" and “Best Team Theme and Costumes.” Winners will receive gift certificates to restaurants like Kupros Bistro or shops like Sports Authority and gift baskets like a tool kit from Ace Hardware.

As with last year, volunteers dressed as old-fashioned barbers with large prop scissors will chase runners, pretending to cut their mustaches as they pass by. Participants can expect other surprises along the route as well before heading to the run’s after-party.

“We have a lot of fun new stuff going on this year,” says race organizer Desiree Bertolani. “We're trying to make it an event for everyone.”

The registration fee includes a T-shirt, goodie bag, entrance to the after-part and one free beer. Live music acts like Century Got Bars and The Pressure Lounge (who appeared at TBD Fest earlier this month) will keep the beat rocking, while runners can refuel with food from Drewski’s and The Squeeze Inn, and sip suds from breweries like Hoppy Brewing Company and Sierra Nevada as well as tastings from wineries like Mustache Vineyards. 

Gentlemen can finesse their look with local barbers at mustache- and beard-trimming stations, and Whyte Raven Massage Studio will be giving participants free 10-minute massages. All attendees can also play lawn games like giant Jenga and cornhole before snapping selfies at the Moustache Run photo booth.

$45 registration. $50 after Oct. 31 (race registration includes entrance to after-party). $10 for single after-party tickets ($5 for ages 12-17). 5K start time: 11 a.m.; kids' fun run: 10:45 a.m. River Walk Park. 651 2nd St. West Sacramento. 500-4992. sacramentomoustacherun.com 

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