Jingle Bell 5K begins festive Saturday

<p>Jenny Gray/FULTON SUN The Kingdom of Christian Academy is holding their Fourth Annual Jingle Bell 5K Saturday, Dec. 4 at 9 a.m. in Memorial Park.</p>

Jenny Gray/FULTON SUN The Kingdom of Christian Academy is holding their Fourth Annual Jingle Bell 5K Saturday, Dec. 4 at 9 a.m. in Memorial Park.

Kingdom of Christian Academy (KCA) will have its fourth annual Jingle Bell 5K at 9 a.m. Saturday at Memorial Park.

The route follows the Stinson Creek Trail.

"It's been very successful, always depending on the weather," KCA officer manager Melanie Pezold said. "If we have a bunch of runners show up or not very many, we're always happy to do it. It's a fun way to get in the Christmas spirit."

Though KCA uses it as a fundraiser for the school, it also partners with Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA). Part of the proceeds will support CASA. In the past, KCA has used money to purchase gift cards for children in foster care in Callaway County who has a CASA.

"It's such a great way to be involved in the community and also a way to do something for the community," Pezold said.

There are 54 runners ranging in ages 4-70 signed up for the Jingle Bell 5K. Registration, which is $30, can be made online at www.kcasaints.org/2021/10/19/4th-annual-jingle-bell-5k/ or at 8 a.m. Saturday.

To add to the festive theme, there's a costume contest at 8:40 a.m. There will be prizes for top male and female in each running category, and for best costume.

"We encourage people to come out and run," Pezold said. "And then to stay in town for the Christmas parade."