SchoolPower Foundation Is Back in Running Again

Once again, SchoolPower has its work cut out.

The foundation raises more than $200,000 a year for Laguna Beach schools. Last year, much of the money went to costs associated with the aftermath of the city’s massive fire. This year, schools are contending with fallout from the county’s bankruptcy.

This is where runners come in. You have a chance to help the cause by taking part in the organization’s 14th annual road race, with 5K and 10K courses along with a 1K for the younger participants.

Sunday’s event starts at the Sawdust Festival grounds. Both of the longer courses take in downtown Laguna Beach, along with parts of Coast Highway and Laguna Canyon. Runners should be prepared for some mild hills, although both races end on a downhill slope, said spokeswoman Anita Halton.

Last year, more than 3,200 runners took part, raising about $30,000 for SchoolPower. For the entire year, the foundation raised $230,000 for schools to buy computers, fund teacher projects and help repair fire damage.

“We do not designate how the school spends the money,” Halton said.

Winners last year in the 10K were Gustavo Mojarres at 30 minutes, 38 seconds for the men, and Beverly Buss in 38:32 for the women. In the 5K, it was Angel Roman in 15:18 for the men and Sherri Curl in 18:21 for the women.

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The Rancho Mission Viejo Land Conservancy may be one of the better-kept secrets in Orange County’s backcountry. The large open space east of Ortega Highway--in the heart of the finest local wildflower country--is open for guided walks only, offered to the public on designated weekend mornings, and walks can be arranged for groups.

The next walk is Sunday, which conservancy volunteer Jill Davison said should coincide with the peak of the season’s bloom. Walks last from 9 a.m. to noon, but only cover about two miles--an indication of the depth of information that conservancy volunteers impart along the way.

“I’d have to say that it’s one of the most educational hikes someone is likely to take,” Davison said.

Hikes are $3 per person, and reservations are required. The meeting place is a green gate off Ortega Highway, 5.1 miles east of Interstate 5. Information: (714) 489-9778.

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On Saturday, meanwhile, Orange County Wheelmen presents a ride with a mouthful of a title: Godzilla Double Century Meets Tour of the Canyons. Courses of 64, 128 and 200 miles are offered, all starting in Yorba Linda.

This is short notice for a ride of this magnitude (the double century includes 8,500 feet of elevation gain) but if you want to get the details, call the club, (714) 956-2453.

* What: SchoolPower 10K, 5K and 1K (for children 10 and younger).

* When: Sunday, 6:30 a.m. registration; 7:45 a.m. 5K; 8:20 a.m. 10K; 9:15 a.m. 1K.

* Where: Starts at Sawdust Festival grounds, Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach.

* Whereabouts: From the San Diego (405) Freeway, take Laguna Canyon Road. A shuttle parking lot will be on the left before El Toro Road. Parts of Laguna Canyon Road will close at 7:30 a.m.

* Wherewithal: $20 for 5K and 10K; $16 for 1K (all entries include T-shirt).

* Where to call: (619) 434-7706.