MDA, Cancer Society Plan Athletic Events

Serious and casual athletes will have the opportunity to raise money forlocal charities Saturday when the Muscular Dystrophy Assn. hosts a “Roll & Stroll” in Westlake and the American Cancer Society sponsors “Making Strides Against Cancer” in Camarillo.

The MDA fund-raiser asks people to run, walk or bike a 5-K, 10-K or a 20-mile route to raise money for the mid-state chapter, which includes Ventura County.

MDA helps buy wheelchairs and other equipment for patients and supports extensive research efforts.

The “Roll & Stroll” begins and ends at the Westlake Inn in Westlake.

The 20-mile bike and skate will begin at 8:30 a.m., and the 10-K and 5-K runs will begin at 10 and 10:30 a.m. respectively.

Across the Conejo Grade, the local chapter of the American Cancer Society will hold a competitive 10-K road run at 8 a.m. beginning at Camarillo High School.

Runners also can participate in a non-competitive “move-along-athon” at 9 a.m. and a 1.5-K fun run at 9:30 a.m.

The American Cancer Society raises money for cancer research, preventive education and patient services.