Durango, CO - Durango Parks and Recreation is hosting the 3^rd Annual "The Town Series."  The Series features runs, hikes, and walks for all athletic ability levels on three prominent trail systems in Durango.  Durango Parks and Recreation is excited to work with the new presenting sponsor, First National Bank of Durango.  One of the goals of this year's Series is to foster greater youth participation, so we are happy to announce that the Durango High School Cross Country team will be a beneficiary and will assist with race coordination and event participation.

The first event, The Mother's Day Telegraph 5K/10K, takes place on Mother's Day, May 11^th, in the Horse Gulch trail system.  The second race, The Mountain Park Classic, traverses through the Mountain Park on July 12 and boasts challenging four- and seven-mile courses.  The Series concludes with the hearty 6.6-mile Animas Mountain Mug Run on September 21.  All events include a one-mile fun course to run or hike.

The Town Series encourages participation from casual walkers and serious runners, alike. Participants may run, hike or walk any course.  Interested individuals may participate in one or more of the races, without competing in the Series. 

All participants who pre-register for the Series will receive a Town Series dri-fit runner's shirt, courtesy of First National Bank of Durango.  First National Bank of Durango will also provide unique race-day souvenirs at the Mother's Day Telegraph and Mountain Park Classic races.  Durango Parks and Recreation will continue the Animas Mountain Mug Run tradition by providing every participant with a locally handcrafted mug.  

Registration for the entire Town Series or for individual races is available at the Durango Community Recreation Center or on-line at www.active.com.  Pre-registration for the Series ends on Sunday, May 4 at 6:00 p.m.  Late registration for the Series ends on May 11.  After May 11, racers may still compete in the Series, but must register for the races separately. 

For the third year in a row, Zia Taqueria will be hosting "The Town Series" finale party, immediately following the Animas Mountain Mug Run.  During the finale festivities, participants will enjoy "fresh mex" food and refreshments compliments of Zia Taqueria, as well as live music outside the restaurant.  Family and friends are also invited to join the fun.  Non-racers may purchase food and beverages at the party. 

For additional information, contact Heidi Schaiberger at the Durango Parks and Recreation Department at 375-7306 or via email at schaibergerhl@ci.durango.co.us.