Runners get ready, the annual Run For Sight is coming to Newtown borough sooner than you think.

The annual 5K run/walk and 1-mile fun run for kids has been moved ahead two weeks to Saturday, June 20. Race Director Wayne Cordes said the date was changed in order to attract more participants.

The event had traditionally been held over the Fourth of July weekend in conjunction with Newtown’s First Fourth celebration.Race organizers realized that the timing of past year’s races couldn’t have been worse with many Bucks County runners flocking to participate in the annual Revolutionary Run held each year in Washington Crossing Historic Park.

Last year, when the Rev Run added a 5K to the preexisting 10K that is their main event, it depleted the Run For Sight ranks even further.

Another variation taking place this year with the event is a change in venue. In the past, the run had always been held in Tyler State Park. This year, the Run for Sight begins at Brian S. Gregg Park and continues through the streets of Newtown borough.

Sponsored by the First National Bank of Newtown, the event is a fundraiser for Leader Dogs For The Blind. Registration begins at 8 a.m. with the fun run kicking off an hour later. The Run For Sight 5K walk/run commences precisely at 9:30 a.m.

Tee-shirts will be given to all pre-registered participants and all race-day entrants while they last. The cost is $20 if you register by Friday, June 5. Afterwards, the cost is $25 with a tee-shirt and $20 after the shirts are exhausted.

Registration forms are available at many businesses throughout the borough. Make your check payable to the Newtown Lions and mail your registration forms to: Newtown Lions, 27 South State St., Newtown, Pa. 18940.

Participants can also register online at www.active.com.

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—Steve Sherman, Sports Editor