Pop on a ski hat, and lace up the tennis shoes for the 11th Annual Chill in the Hills 10K Run, 5K Walk and 1-mile Fun Run.

The event, which is a fundraiser for the Grace Christian Counseling Center, is scheduled to begin at 8:30 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 12 and is the first race of the New Year on the Mississippi Track Club’s calendar.

“The race will start at Martin’s at Midtown,” GCCC office manager and member of the Chill in the Hills race committee Anna Sanders said, and continue through the Glenwood Circle neighborhood.

Runners will also travel down Drummond Street around the Vicksburg High School stadium. 

All runners and walkers will finish the race back alongside the restaurant, which is at 1101 Belmont St. Following the run, walk and fun run, prizes will be awarded to top finishers in each age category, and as in past years, winners will receive a chili bowl.

This year the pottery bowls will be made by Vicksburg artist Lisa Grant, Sanders said.

“We will also have door prizes and t-shirts that will be available.”

The event will also feature music by Slap Happy, and snacks will be provided by Waterview Casino and Hotel.

Martin’s at Midtown is also taking orders for King Cakes, Sanders said. Proceeds from the sale of all orders will benefit the counseling center, which is a non-profit organization that provides professional counseling service to all people in the community.

To place King Cake orders, call 601-636-2353.

The cost of the race is $35 and for those who preregister, packet pickup will be held beginning at 5 p.m. Friday, Jan. 12 at Martin’s At Midtown.

“You can also register for the race during this time,” Sanders said, as well as online at raceroster.com/events/2019/19106/chill-in-the-hills.

The 1-mile Fun Run will be free for ages 12 and younger.

Sanders said there is also time for anyone who is interested in becoming a sponsor for the race.

“This is the last week for sponsorships,” she said, and sponsorships available include mile markers for $100. Also, logos on the Chill in the Hill t-shirt are available for $250, $500 and $1000.

“Lisa Martin is also handling our “I’m on the route!” yard signs. Those are $10,” Sanders said.

Volunteers are also needed the day of the race, and volunteer coordinator Chaney Carlucci said, “The more the merrier,” adding, “There will always be a place for somebody somewhere to help out.”

Volunteer responsibilities will include helping along the race routes, handing out water at the water stations and clean up.

And for the younger volunteers, Carlucci said, they can help out as cheerleaders closer towards the finish line.

Five service hours will also be available to students who volunteer.

For more information about the race or to volunteer, visit the website at http://www.gracechristiancounselingcenter, or call 601-636-5703.