By Becky Maxedon

Dust off those running shoes and get ready for a new October event to benefit a good cause.

Lizard Peak Scramble is set for Oct. 18, at SARA Park’s main trailhead parking lot.

“Lizard Peak Scramble is a set of trail races to help celebrate our incredible local trails, bring trail racing to Lake Havasu, introduce people to trail running and encourage people to get outside embracing an active lifestyle,” event organizer Tony Rivello said.

The event will consist of four races – a 5K and 10K race that incorporates Lizard Peak, a 5K fun run/hike called the Heart Attack Hill 5K, and the Dirt Dash for kids ages 4 and up. The kid’s Dirt Dash is 1K or a .75-mile loop.

“The idea was born purely through my own passion for trail running which began about 13 years ago, and a desire to share that with other people.

“In addition, our local trails, I feel are second to none. We have a seven- to eight-month weather window that allows for us to produce some incredible trail events. So, when you bring together incredible trails, great weather and amenities like the Rodeo Grounds you have a recipe for success,” Rivello said.

Rivello and his son created a company called AZAK Event Co., which stand for Arizona and Alaska.

“We have obtained a 10-year BLM special recreation permit which will allow us the opportunity to produce up to four trail race events annually between the months of September and April on designated trails.”

Rivello said that although he isn’t sure if the event is part of London Bridge Days, it is the Saturday before the London Bridge Day’s Parade.

“So, we are kind of considering ourselves a kickoff event to what used to be London Bridge days week.”

Rivello is a retired Lake Havasu City firefighter and a member of the local mental health peer support team.

“I formed a nonprofit earlier this year, entitled A Clear Path Forward. It was established to get our firefighters and first responders outdoors to help them develop healthy ways to cope with the physical demands of a career in emergency response.”

The parking lot area will host the start/finish line, the race timer as well as the vendor area.

“Our first race, the Lizard Peak 10K is scheduled to kick off at 7:30 a.m., with the remaining races having a staggered start.”

There is a packet pick up set for Oct. 17, at the Rodeo Grounds between 5 and 7 p.m., where runners can check in to receive their official bib number as well as any items they may have purchased like hats or shirts.

“A huge added bonus is that we have secured the Rodeo Grounds for the weekend. As a result, we are offering free camping to all registered runners. Whether you are local or from out of town, you are welcome to come spend a night under the stars. Close to the action. Bring your RV, trailer or tent. You will be within walking distance to the start line,” Rivello said.

Registration fees range from $15 for the kids Dirt Dash, $40 for either 5K to $55 for the 10 K. All registered runners who cross the finish line will receive a custom finishers medal.

Finishers in the 5K and 10K races will recieve this medal. Photo courtesy Tony Rivello

“We’ve put a lot of time and effort into designing what we feel will be a truly unique keepsake, finishers medal highlighting, or inaugural race.”

The entry fee includes custom race bib, race of choice, custom finishers medal, access to the post-race recovery zone sponsored by First Savings Bank, which will have free, healthy foods, snacks, hydration drinks, cold, plunges and physical therapy provided by Agave Physical Therapy.

“In addition, we will have a runners raffle with a series of great prizes to be given out after the race awards.”

People who want to register can do so now by going here:

https://runsignup.com/Race/AZ/LakeHavasuCity/LizardPeakTrailChallenge.

Individuals can make donations directly through our race website. (501c3 number EIN 33-3443841)

The race site has event information, dates, times, descriptions of each of the racecourses, as well as an opportunity to purchase event hats, and shirts that will help fund the nonprofit.

There are vendor and volunteer opportunities also available to help make the event a success. Contact the organizers on Facebook or Instagram at lizard peak scramble 10k 5k.

Anderson Auto Group is the title sponsor of the event, along with Cycle Therapy, First Savings Bank, and Bossanova Plumbing who is the Dirt Dash sponsor.

Shirt sponsors include Just Garage Doors, Desert Pro Detailing, Desert Hills firefighters, Lake Havasu, professional firefighters.

“Big thanks to Scott Stocking with Mudshark brewery who is kind enough to donate some post-race beer and financially. We will have beer on sale that day that will benefit our nonprofit,” Rivello said.

Cycle Therapy will be on Hand with mountain bike demos as well as many other fitness-related companies.

“Years ago, I would never have categorized myself as a runner. However, trail running has become an integral part of my health and fitness lifestyle. It’s challenging, rewarding, and peaceful all at the same time.

“With a healthy, big horn sheep population it’s not uncommon to have close encounters with our desert wildlife. Something you won’t encounter running the streets of Havasu.

“What most people living in Lake Havasu may not know is that they have over 50 miles of incredible non-motorized hiking, mountain biking and running trails right in their backyard.”

Rivello said anyone wanting to get out and run or hike, get some fresh air with dirt under their feet, “we would love to have you join us. If you’re looking for something to do that morning, come down and check out the vendor area, listen to music and cheer on your favorite runner.”