Charles Mears State Park in Pentwater will host a chance to “GO Get Outdoors” at a beach run/walk on Saturday, Sept. 12. The 5K and 10K races will begin and end at Charles Mears State Park, with the races starting at 8:30 a.m., and follow a course covering paved, sand and beach surfaces.

“The course starts out along the picturesque streets of Pentwater, and then proceeds through the beach communities north of town,” said Park Supervisor Jim Gallie. “The final segment of the course follows along the water’s edge and, with Lake Michigan experiencing high water levels, participants should be prepared for the possibility of wet feet.”

Proceeds from the event will benefit Communities Overcoming Violent Encounters (C.O.V.E.), a non-profit organization serving victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and women and children who are homeless.

The entry fee for the event is $15 per person if registered by Monday, Sept. 7, and $20 after Sept. 7 with special discounted rates for families. The first 100 registrants will receive a free event t-shirt and refreshments will be provided for all participants. Prizes will be awarded to the first and second place female and male finishers in each age group for the running events and for the overall female and male first and second place finishers of the 5K walk.

For more information about the event, contact Lynne Cavazos at 231-869-5939. Registration forms and additional information about the event can also be found online at www.michigan.gov/mears. For information about accessibility or accommodations at the park contact 231-869-2051. Mears State Park is located on West Lowell Street in Pentwater. Camping reservations can be made on-line at www.midnrreservations.com, or by calling 800-44PARKS (800-447-2757).

All motor vehicles entering a state park or recreation area must display a Motor Vehicle Permit, available for purchase at the entrance. Cost is $24 for resident annual and $6 for resident daily. A non-resident annual is $29 and a non-resident daily is $8.