Courtesy: event press release

The American Indians in Texas at the Spanish Colonial Missions (AIT-SCM) has announced that Olympic Gold Medalist Billy Mills will be participating in their Second Annual Missions Heritage 5K Run/Walk on Sunday, September 18 at the San Jose Mission in San Antonio, Texas.

Native American Billy Mills participated in the 1964 Tokyo Olympics as part of the United States Olympic Track and Field Team. Mills went unnoticed throughout the Olympics and was not favored to win the 10,000 meter run. However, he won the race in 28 minutes and 24 seconds, a new Olympic record. As of today, no other American has won a gold medal in the 10,000 meter run.

"Billy Mills is a true inspiration," said Ramon Juan Vasquez, Executive Director of AIT-SCM. "He has shown people everywhere that through determination and perseverance, you can accomplish your goals. He's a great role model and we're very excited that he's going to be participating in this run."

Billy Mills is still active in Native American causes today. He is currently the national spokesperson for Running Strong for American Indian Youth, a non-profit organization that help communities with self-sufficiency programs, youth activities, and cultural identity projects. He resides in Sacramento, California.

The Missions Heritage 5K Run/Walk is based on a 250 year old route that Native American couriers used to transport messages among the five Missions, known as the Old Mission Trail. This event is open to the public and those who would like to participate can register now by picking up a registration form at 1426 El Paso Street, or online at www.TexasMissionIndians.com. Contestants can also register on race day.

The race begins at 7:30 a.m. at San Jose Mission. There will also be a short course available for walkers and families. A Native American Indian Market and Powwow will also be held in conjunction with the race at San Jose Mission and it will be free and open to the public, starting at 10:00 a.m.