Courtesy: event press release

The idea of running a full or even a half marathon appeals to a surprisingly high percentage of people at some point in their lives.

Then most simply sit down and just wait til the idea goes away.

But for others, like the hundreds of runners from Houston and beyond who will be participating in the Lakes of Williams Ranch 30K race on Sunday, December 9, starting at 7:00 a.m. in front of Sugar Land City Hall on Town Center Blvd. North, the race is an emotional and physical investment months in the making. A life quest.

The Williams Ranch 30K, which is 18.6 miles through First Colony, ending back in Town Square, is the last "tune-up" race before the actual Chevron Houston Marathon in January.

"We are expecting 1,200 runners, a 20 percent increase over last year," said Race Director Andy Stewart, of Sugar Land Finish Line Sports. "Our new title sponsor is the gorgeous Lakes of Williams Ranch, thanks to Steve Fuqua Homes. Steve's involvement as title sponsor has really elevated all aspects of this 20 year old pre-Houston marathon event. The runners, their families and our volunteers are in for an incredible race day experience."

The Gold sponsors include: Fort Bend Toyota, Offices at Town Square, Dew Point Control, Amici and Amegy Bank.

The local causes being donated to from race proceeds are Cenikor-Knock Out Drugs, Rainbow Room, Child Advocates- Fort Bend, HARRA, Houston-Athens Marathon Exchange, and others.

"There is a 4:15 time limit for the runners to cover the 18.6 course, and no raceday registration," added Stewart.

Details are at signmeup.com. Volunteers are still being accepted.

"We're thrilled to be a part of one of the biggest athletic events in Fort Bend," said Steve Fuqua of Fuqua Homes. "It takes determination, courage and commitment to an athletic goal to do something like this race. It's a positive thing to be a part of - and of course, the ability to give to some very important causes through donations made by Sugar Land Finish Line Sports. It's a win-win in my book."