Wichita residents, get ready to lace up your running shoes for a great cause and enjoyable race through the autumn air. The Sixth Annual Rosstoberfest Run is set for Oct. 5 in charming College Hill on the east side of Wichita.

Proceeds from the race will benefit Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy (PPMD), a non-profit organization dedicated to expediting viable treatments and a cure for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD).

Over the past five years, there have been over 500 racers annually, with a record 1,100 walkers and runners in 2012. The idea of the Rosstoberfest Run is to run for those who can’t, putting a smile on the face of runners, patients, sponsors, and volunteers.

Advance entry fees are $25 for the 5K and $15 for the one-mile event. There is an extra $5 charge for registering online. Be sure to register early, as the fees increase to $35 and $25 on race day. You can register at GORUN Wichita, with locations at 2556 N. Maize Rd. and 2350 N. Greenwich Rd. in Wichita.

Both beginners and veteran runners will enjoy the course. If you’re not in it for the competitive aspect, just walk to have fun while supporting PPMD in Wichita.

Muscular dystrophies are genetic disorders characterized by progressive muscle wasting and weakness. They begin with microscopic alterations in a person’s muscles. As the disease’s effects build over time, the person’s muscle strength declines.

The name “Rosstoberfest” comes from Ross McFarland, born in 1995 with DMD. His parents, both avid runners, organized the event in January of 2008 to honor Ross and raise money for the PPMD. The course will finish at the Blessed Sacrament parish “Oktoberfest” event.

If you want to get healthy and support a great cause, I highly recommend participating in the Rosstoberfest Run in eastern Wichita.