A Much-Needed Course of Action

The January earthquake has created an even bigger need for the Jimmy Stewart Relay Marathon this year. The annual event at Griffith Park raises money for the Child Study Center at St. John’s Hospital in Santa Monica, and because of quake damage, organizers have set a goal of $500,000.

But the day is also a lot of fun for runners and spectators, who join in the picnic atmosphere and watch or participate in the Diaper Dash, the Celebrity Relay and the big race--the relay marathon featuring about 1,000 runners--made up of teams sponsored by various groups including entertainment, law enforcement, firefighters and seniors citizens. A restaurant division includes teams from Spago, Chasen’s, Schatzi on Main, Jimmys and more.

This is the 13th year that actor Jimmy Stewart has hosted the event, and this year, the marathon will be dedicated to his wife, Gloria Stewart, who died earlier this year. It’s the 10th year for co-host Robert Wagner, whose co-star on the returning “Hart to Hart,” Stefanie Powers, is the honorary course marshal. The event, which begins at 8 a.m., is free to spectators. For more information, call (310) 829-8968.