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We all can feel the long winter weather dragging along this year. The cool air and moisture filled clouds often make us want to cuddle up under our blankets with some warm soup and watch our favorite flicks. Well it’s officially time to kick off the sheets and hop into our running shoes! This Saturday, March 13, join the O.C. Chili Winter Trail Run to keep you motivated and fit during the cold season.

The course begins bright and early at 8:30 a.m. and will bring runners on a 5 mile trail through the scenic landscape of O’Neill Regional Park. This is a community event and features so much more than a brisk morning run. In addition to the fun-filled raffle, from 9a.m. to 11a.m. there will be a campfire and Chili Cook Off to keep runners warm, fit and well fed.

The trail run seeks to benefit Trails4All, a not for profit organization that assists in coordinating volunteer trail projects and to raise funds to support volunteer groups that undertake those projects. Trails4All is working with a network of about thirty groups, agencies and retail stores, and includes outdoor enthusiasts such as hikers, mountain bikers, trail runners and equestrians.

We all have experienced the effect of the struggling economy in our lives, but many do not consider the effect on our local recreation areas. It is estimated that over 700 miles of natural surface and trails are shared in Orange County, and although the land increases each year, the county’s budget for the park system decreases. Trails4All uses its generous donations to contribute to the maintenance and improvements of these natural resources.

The organization continues to welcome members, sponsors, donations and volunteers to help continue its efforts. Participants can be involved with trail construction, environmental clean-ups for creeks and watersheds, instructional seminars, youth programs and of course trail maintenance. Volunteers are also welcome to contribute their time at the O.C. Chili Winter Run Series and can sign up on the event website.

The March 13 run is actually the second in the O.C. Chili Winter Run Series, with the next race being held April 17. Registration prices vary and those who sign up have the option of buying a high quality fashionable t-shirt to show your commitment to your fitness and the organization’s efforts. You can find more information and past race pictures and results on the event website at www.bookthatevent.com.

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We’ve all heard of March Madness, but what about Orange County’s own March Mudness? Hosted by 5 Star Generation, the 2010 March Mudness Mud Run is set for Saturday, March 13 at Camp James in Irvine from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event offers the ultimate competition for active enthusiasts who don’t mind diving in the dirt and help build their community and confidence.

This unique Mud Run course has been redesigned and is equipped with new twists and turns. The 5 mile and 5K race ventures in an out-and-back course loop that takes the competition through bunkers, trenches, tires, logs and deep pits. The path runs through the old lion country safari pits and crevices with surprises around every corner. Racers will experience the thrills of running through the jungle, the lurking adventure of swampland and the desolate terrain of the desert all in one day!
The muddy activities continue throughout the event as 5 Star Generation also offers teams to participate in the All-Sport Competition. Sign-ups for these challenges are only available on “Race Day” and check-in is at the basketball court on location. These contests will test teams at their sports skills as well as team unity.

The organization is proud to contribute to the inspiring youth organizations that help build the future of O.C. It is a community of young people who seek to acquire knowledge, accomplish service, and accelerate change in their world. They are role models and mentors who thrive in helping others. March Mudness will benefit the Boys and Girls Clubs, YMCA and other local youth athletic programs.

With the recent impact of the devastation in Haiti still fresh in our minds, the event seeks to support the efforts of supplying those in need of basic essentials. Race participants are encouraged to donate their own shoes after the run. Collection boxes will be available on site and thanks are extended by all of the organizations who are continuing to collect for relief efforts in Haiti.

All ages are welcome to March Mudness. The minimum age for participating in the 5 Mile run is 15-years-old and 11 -years-old for the 5K run! Since getting muddy is the purpose of this charitable event, activities will be held rain or shine! Teams of five or more are permitted to compete and only teams of five are eligible for awards.

Come out, get dirty and help the youth in Orange County. Camp James is located next to Wild Rivers Water Park and Verizon Amphitheater at 8790 Irvine Center Drive, Irvine CA 92618.

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One of the most exciting weeks of the year has officially Teed Off in Southern California. The Toshiba Classic has returned to Newport Beach to welcome golf legends and the community to share in the charitable efforts to benefit Hoag Memorial Hospital and other Orange County organizations. The tournament began Monday, March 1 and will continue through Sunday, March 7. Tickets are still available and special promotions will be running throughout the Classic.

Over the past twelve years, with the help of Orange County community members, the PGA Toshiba Classic has raised over $12 million for participating charities. “Swing for the Green” is back for its third annual Recycling Event, providing the community a free and easy way to responsibly dispose of e-waste. In return, the PGA gives its thanks by offering two complimentary admission tickets good for one day of the tournament. The promotion will run from Friday March 5th to Sunday March 7th. See event website for details. Don’t miss your chance to give back to the environment and the community!

In addition to its green initiatives, the Toshiba Classic also contributes its resources and time to some of the most important stars in our life – our kids! In partnership with Charles Schwab, the tournament hosts the Charles Schwab Family Day on Saturday, March 6.

The day features family discounts and activities for Orange County youngsters, including the chance to learn essential golf fundamentals, instructed by industry legends. Fuzzy Zoeller and Andy Bean will contribute their time to provide complimentary instruction at the Newport Beach Country Club driving range immediately following play on Saturday. All children ages 6-12 are invited to participate in this fun-filled free clinic.

Golfers who held the Toshiba Classic Championship Title are returning in attempt to reclaim its prestige and are among the long list of decorated athletes. Past winners include: Edwardo Romero (2009), Bernhard Langer (2008), Jay Haas (2007), and Hale Irwin (1998 & 2002). Competition will be fierce and motivations are high to be a part of this year’s Orange County tournament.

The incredible history of the Classic’s charitable financial success has been driven by the generous support provided by Southern California businesses. Each year over 150 sponsors, 1200 volunteers and 85,000 spectators participate. This year is no different. A recent independent study performed by Economic Research Associates the economic impact of this tournament to exceed $26 million. The week-long event will be televised domestically on The Golf Channel and internationally on PGA Tour broadcast partners.

The Classic Pro-Am presented by Emulex is the first day of competition. Amateur teams of four are paired with a different PGA Champions Tour player on each day of this two day competition. The week continues on Friday, March 5th with the first round of professional competition. For a full schedule of events and tee times please visit the event website at http://www.toshibaclassic.com.

The PGA and its charitable affiliates, including Hoag Hospital Centers of Excellence, looks forward to meeting you at this year’s Toshiba Classic Championship Tournament. Enjoy the Green!