The Second Annual State Fair 5K and Big Tex Mile is expected to attract an enthusiastic crowd of runners, walkers and onlookers to the front gate of Fair Park on Saturday, Sept. 28, for an event designed for family groups and serious athletes alike. Presented by AT&T, with generous support from American Express, Luke's Locker and KVIL, proceeds from the race will benefit the State Fair Scholarship Fund.

Happy Birthday BIG TEX!
The big guy turns 50 this year, and you can help him celebrate by entering the 2nd Annual State Fair 5K and Big Tex Mile on September 28. It's a great event for the whole family (serious runners, too! ChampionChip Timed), and it's for a great cause -- State Fair Scholarships. Participants will receive a free ticket ($11 value) to the 2002 State Fair of Texas, and besides all the usual food, fun & games planned for that opening Saturday, Alan Jackson will be spotlighted in a free concert on the Chevrolet Main Stage. Kids under 10 who finish the Big Tex Mile can look forward to a special blue ribbon, and discount coupons will be offered to all participants for their family and friends.

Since 1992, the State Fair of Texas has awarded more than $1.2 million in college scholarships to deserving young people who have exhibited at State Fair livestock shows and students who graduate from the four DISD high schools closest to Fair Park.

The 5K race will begin at 8:30 a.m. on Exposition Avenue (near Parry) and continue through Deep Ellum and the Lower Swiss neighborhoods. The Big Tex Mile will start at the same time over a shorter course. For both events, the finish line will be at Exposition Plaza. At the end of the races, each registered runner will receive a free ticket to the 2002 State Fair of Texas and an official State Fair 5K T- shirt. Top finishers in the various divisions will be awarded gigantic stuffed animals as prizes at a special ceremony on the plaza. Brochures and entry forms will be mailed in mid-August. Online registration will also be offered at www.bigtex.com. Packet pickup will be available Sept. 25-27 at Luke's Locker, 3607 Oak Lawn in Dallas. Entry fees will be $15 for adults and $10 for children (under age 10) prior to Sept. 20. After that date, the fee will be $18 at Luke's Locker and $20 on race day.

5K Age Divisions - Chip Timed Awards go to 1st place male/female Masters (40+), Grand Masters (55+), top three male/female Overall and 5 year age divisions from 9 & under to 70 & over