The Carlsbad 5000, host to ten 5K world records, returns to Carlsbad on Sunday, April 7, 2002, announced event manager Elite Racing, Inc. The 17th Annual event includes the world's fastest Invitational 5K Road Race, a Wheelchair Invitational and a series of "People's Races."

The event is expected to attract 15,000 runners and 50,000 spectators during a weekend of racing excitement. The Fabulous Mar Dels will entertain the crowd on Sunday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Carlsbad 5000 events begin at 7:05 a.m. with the Men's Masters Race, followed by six additional "People's Races" for runners in different age groups. These races lead up to the prestigious Invitational Race at 12:05 p.m. An incredible elite field has been assembled for both the men's and women's Invitational races. The current men's world record (13:00), set by Kenya's Sammy Kipketer at Carlsbad in 2000 and 2001, will be challenged, as well as the women's mark (14:57), which was set by Paula Radcliffe in London last September after Rose Cheruiyot's Carlsbad record held for six years. The Carlsbad 5000 will be featured nationally on FOX Sports Net.

The 13th Annual Junior Carlsbad for children 12-and-under will take place on Saturday, April 6. The Junior Carlsbad features a series of ten running events designed specifically to accommodate children's fitness levels. All kids are winners and are awarded with a "gold" medal as they cross the finish line.

Proceeds from the Carlsbad 5000 and Junior Carlsbad will benefit Carlsbad High School athletic programs. In addition, funds will be donated to the "Kids are Worth a Million!" program to raise $1 million to equip area schools with state-of-the-art technology.

A "Health & Fitness Expo" will run throughout the weekend, Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Expo combines running, fitness, nutrition, health, apparel and equipment, and features live entertainment. The Expo also serves as Race Registration Headquarters. All participants will receive an official race T-shirt and goodie bag.

Entry forms for the Carlsbad 5000 and Junior Carlsbad are available online at www.eliteracing.com or by calling 858/450-6510. Entry fees are $23 on or before March 31 [$12 for Junior Carlsbad] and $28 [$15 for Junior Carlsbad] thereafter.