Whispering Pines and Sandhills Farm Life School are taking a run at helping kids and families be healthier and more active.

The ShamRock ‘n’ Roll Road Race will be held Saturday, March 13. It will begin and end at the Whispering Pines Police Department located at 14 Hardee Lane.

This is the second year for the event. Last year 350 students participated in the Sandhills Farm Life Fun Run, held on Nov. 8, 2008 at the Whispering Pines Golf Course.

Jill Saunders, who is president of the Farm Life PTA and race director, said last year’s inaugural event raised more than $2,000. She expects that number to increase this time around.

This year’s event features a mile fun run/walk and a 5-K run/walk as well as a post-race party and awards for top finishers.

“We are hoping to have more families participating together this year,” said Saunders, an avid runner who hopes to participate in the event this year. “It doesn’t have to be an all running event, we just want people to set some goals and be fitter this year.”

The 5K race begins at 8:30 a.m., followed by the Leprechaun Leap Fun Run at 9:30. The post-race party featuring snacks, obstacle course and activity booths starts at 10 a.m., with the awards presentation to begin at 10:30.

The ultimate goal is to hold the race annually, and continually grow the event each year.

Registration forms are available at Village Hall, 10 Pine Ride Drive, or online at www.whisperingpinesnc.net.

Registration for all Farm Life students is free for each race. All other are $5 for the fun run and $15 for the 5K. Add $5 to each fee if registration is received after March 4. Make checks payable to Sandhills Farm Life PTA.

The event benefits Sandhills Farm Life Elementary and is co-sponsored by the Village of Whispering Pines and the school’s PTA. It will be held rain or shine.

Contact Tom Embrey at (910) 693-2484 or by e-mail at tembrey@thepilot.com.