Low-key races (on foot and couch) pivotal for Rotary’s ‘Parrots 0.5K’

MADISON – “Finally, a Race for the Rest of Us.”

Rotary Club of Madison’s tagline for the “Parrots 0.5K and Block Party” event hints at the atmosphere for the low-key, laid-back afternoon that will please even ‘couch potatoes.’

The event’s name pays homage to the club’s legacy fundraiser, “Parrots of the Caribbean.”

Parrots 0.5K’s event venue will be Town Madison, centered around St. Louis Street, on June 15 from 3 to 6 p.m. The ‘race’ is actually a fun run, jog or walk.

After registering, participants will receive a race bib with a number, just like a real 5K but this event’s length is only 0.5K, or about 600 yards. Rotarians encourage participants to embrace the laid-back island lifestyle (like Parrots of the Caribbean) and enjoy the journey with friends, pets and family.

Children and dogs can enter for free. Event admission is free, but individuals must register for the 0.5K to participate. Registered participants will be eligible for door prizes, awarded at the event. Guests can park free at the stadium.

The event will be held, rain or shine.

All registered ‘runners’ will receive run ‘flair’:

* Oval, Euro-style 0.5K sticker — For a car’s rear window to show a true athlete is behind the wheel, Rotarians said.

* Race T-shirt — To guarantee appropriate shirt size, register by May 26.

* Participation ‘medal’ — “Everyone gets recognized for their achievement at this event.” (madisonalrotary.org/parrots-0-5-k)

* Race bib — Serves as entry pass to door prizes.

To register, visit madisonalrotary.org/parrots-0-5-k, and click the “0.5K SIGN UP” link. Entry fee in advance is $35; the fee will be $50 on race day.

All registered Parrots 0.5K participants with bib numbers are eligible to win the impressive grand prize, donated by Landers McLarty Subaru. Three people will compete for the Grand Prize in the “Hockey Stick Putt-Off.”

The winner can choose from three options, based on eligibility:

* Option 1 — A 2024 Subaru Ascent leased from Landers McLarty free for 36 months. To qualify, the winner must be 19 years of age minimum and qualify for a lease from the dealership.

* Option 2 — $6,000 off MSRP on any new car purchase from Landers McLarty Subaru (with approved credit; dealer will provide details).

* Option 3 – A check for $6,000.

In addition, the “Couch Potato 0.5K Race” is a quirky and crazy activity. Teams will race their ‘mobile’ couches for cash prizes.

They will compete for speed or style as teams transform the mundane into the magnificent, all in the name of charity. Dust off your favorite old couch, deck it out in your wildest decorations, and race in comfort, according to Rotarians.

Rotary members encourage (but don’t require) costumes and team themes.

The “Best Team Theme” Trophy will recognize the most creative couch with an impressive design and over-the-top decorations. Cash prizes for the Couch Potato Race will be $1,000 for first place; $300, second place; and $200, third place.

To sign up for the Couch Potato Race, email madisonrotary+CPRace@gmail.com. The race organizer will contact teams for registration. Only nine teams can enter the couch race.

The entire area for Parrots 0.5K and Block Party is within Town Madison’s Entertainment District. Beverage vendors can provide a to-go cup to enjoy in the venue.

The event’s premier sponsor is Landers McLarty Subaru.

For more information, email madisonrotary@gmail.com, or visit “Rotary Club of Madison AL” on Facebook or Instagram.