The Imogene Pass Run is just around the corner and the perfect warm up for it is the sixth annual Mt. Sneffels Half Marathon. This run, while admittedly much less grueling than the Imogene Pass Run, still offers a good workout in a beautiful setting. The course winds from Ouray's Hot Springs Park to downtown Ridgway, following the Uncompahgre River along the back roads. Runners won't take one step on asphalt during the race, and walkers are welcome to participate.

The race will be held Saturday, August 26, at 7:30 a.m. The 13.1 mile route is slightly downhill, starting at an altitude of approximately 7,750 feet and finishing at 6,900 feet.

"This is really a great run," said Kelly Hagemeyer, race director and Mt. Sneffels Board member. "The timing is perfect, two weeks before the Imogene Pass Run and at a time when tourism has traditionally slowed in Ouray County. The weather is also beautiful that time of year."

A fun run for the kids will be held the same day, starting at 11 a.m. in the Ridgway ball fields.

The $35 entry fee benefits the Mt. Sneffels Education Foundation and includes a T-shirt and food at the finish line. The race is the foundation's major fundraiser of the year, and last year over 200 runners participated. This year, entry will be limited to 400. Participants can enter online at www.active.com or pick up an entry blank at the Ridgway Chamber of Commerce or the Ouray Camber Resort Association. Race day registration begins at 6:30 a.m.

The Mt. Sneffels Education Foundation was founded in 1993 to assist the children of Ouray County in expanding their educational opportunities. Each year the foundation gives over $20,000 in grants to help kids take advantage of programs outside of the school's or their family's budget. Mt. Sneffels is a 501(c)3 corporation.

For more information call 800/325- 4746.