Posted: March 6, 2006

Athletics: SD Chargers' Eric Parker Teams Up with Jr. Carlsbad for Fun and Fundraising

Junior Carlsbad Race on April 8 to Benefit Huntington's Disease Society of America

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (March 6, 2006) -- On Sat., April 8, 2006 kids participating in the 17th annual Junior Carlsbad will be treated to cheers and high fives from San Diego Chargers wide receiver Eric Parker as they cross the finish line. In an effort to raise awareness and funds for the Huntington's Disease Society of America (HDSA), Parker has teamed up with this fun, healthy, outdoor event that is open to children ages 12 and under.

The HDSA is the official charity of the 2006 Junior Carlsbad. Huntington's Disease (HD) is a devastating, degenerative brain disorder for which there is, at present, no effective treatment or cure. HD slowly diminishes the affected individual's ability to walk, think, talk and reason. The HDSA is dedicated to finding a cure for HD while providing both vital services and support to improve the lives of those affected by HD.

Parker, 26, recently completed his fifth season playing in the National Football League with the San Diego Chargers. Known as a hard worker by his teammates and a participant in several different sports as a child, Parker was a natural choice to help welcome kids to the Junior Carlsbad race that seeks to lend a hand in battling Huntington's Disease.

"I had a great time at the Junior Carlsbad last year … probably had as much fun as the kids," said Eric.  "This year I think my son (Eric, Jr. - 3) is going to participate.  Plus, I've seen the great work that the Huntington's Disease Society does and they deserve our support."

Hosting a race for every age and ability, Junior Carlsbad celebrates fitness and family. Kids ages seven thru 12 run a one-mile course, followed by five and six-year-olds running a half-mile and four year olds running a quarter mile. Highlighting the day is the popular Toddler Trot for three-year-olds and the two-and-under Diaper Dash, both a series of 25 and 50-yard dashes. Every child earns a finisher's medal, a race t-shirt and goodie bag. Awards are given to the top 3 girl and boy finishers in each age group (5-12).

For the adults, the 21st Carlsbad 5000 follows a day later, on Sunday, April 9. The world's fastest 5K is a 3.1- mile foot race that has been home to 15 world records while also being dubbed the party by the sea for the everyday runner and walker.

A free Health & Fitness Expo takes place on race weekend, running from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sat., April 8 and 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sun., April 9. The expo will serve as Carlsbad 5000 race registration headquarters on Saturday starting at 10 a.m., allowing participants to pick up their race number, timing chip, Under Armour technical T- shirt and goodie bag. The interactive expo, located on Roosevelt Street between Grand and Carlsbad Village Drive, will display running apparel and shoes, fitness gear, and healthy and nutrition items.

For more information or to register for Junior Carlsbad or the Carlsbad 5000, visit www.eliteracing.com or call (858) 450-6510. Junior Carlsbad online registration is currently $12 through April 2. The fee moves to $20 thereafter and on race day. The first 500 entrants to Junior Carlsbad will receive a free gift. Online registration for the Carlsbad 5000 is $23 through April 2. The entry fee is $30 thereafter and on race day.

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