SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO : Runners at Annual Event May Wing It

A city famous for its small, winged denizens will get a visit from the decidedly lesser known “land swallow” Saturday during the annual Follow the Swallow Run.

For the first time, city organizers are encouraging entrants to dress up like swallows. The best-dressed swallows will win prizes.

More than 1,500 runners are expected to enter the 10-kilometer event, which has separate categories for wheelchair entrants, and a shorter 4-kilometer course that encourages people to both walk and run.

Also scheduled is an untimed, one-mile run for children.

Those interested in participating should register in advance, although entries on the day of the event will be permitted. Advance registration is available at the city Community Services Department, 31421 La Matanza St.

Those who register on the day of the race can do so starting at 6 a.m. at Cook Park at Calle Arroyo and La Novia Avenue, where all the races will start. The entry fee is $20 for the 10K run and $13 for the 4K event.