There’s a challenge taken on every year by brave and resilient runners – known as The Beast – and this year’s Day of Reckoning is Saturday, December 10.

The Santa Clarita Runners invite all to the Beast Charity Run/Walk at 7:30 a.m. that day, with proceeds donated to the Santa Clarita Valley Food Pantry.

The Beast is that mountain rising from the ‘park and ride’ at the end of Newhall Avenue, near Highway 14.  The Beast trail is a fire road approximately 4.86 miles in length, with a bottom to top elevation gain from 1,200 to 3,836 feet.  It’s a favorite of runners, hikers, and mountain bikers.

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Most runners know the Beast, and it’s still there in all its muscularity, mass and splendor. As fall develops, it’s expected to also be cool, moist and green. For those about to shift into their strength-building for winter and spring marathon or the upcoming track season, it’s an excellent place to start.

The 5th Annual Beast will be a wonderful passage into the holiday season by helping the unfortunate who need the Food Pantry during these challenging economic times. The need has never been greater.

In the prior four years, the Annual Beast has contributed almost $11,000 to the SCV Food Pantry. Over that same period of time, the Santa Clarita Runners, via Ben’s Ten and the 2010 Women’s Race, contributed a like sum to the Pantry. Almost all the money came from individuals.

The $20 race entry, along with other donated goods, will enable the SCV Food Pantry to provide food for an abundant Christmas dinner for six, which will likely be the most rewarding and appreciated gift you give this year.

Race details, including registration information, are available at Don’s Diary.net. For additional questions, email donmclean@pacbell.net.