Solana Beach CA— Champions for Health, a local non-profit foundation, has announced that registration is now open for its 3rd annual Solana Beach Sunset 5k run-walk, a fundraiser starting at 4 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 1, at Fletcher Cove Park 111 South Sierra Ave., Solana Beach.
The fundraiser is billed as San Diego’s only sunset 5k to be held at low tide on the beach. Organizers are expecting about 900 people will participate.
“We’re encouraging everyone to meet us at the beach as we run or walk along the sand, soak in the gorgeous views and raise funds for diabetes prevention,” said Barbara Mandel, CEO, Champions for Health.
Proceeds will benefit Jump Start for Health, a Champions for Health program designed to prevent diabetes among at-risk adults in San Diego County. Champions for Health, formerly known as the San Diego County Medical Society, operates numerous health promotion programs in San Diego County.
For registration and event information, visit www.ChampionsForHealth.org, or contact Kylene Cummings, kylene.cummings@ChampionsFH.org. Early bird registration is $39 per person through Sept. 1. Onsite registration on event day will begin at 3 p.m.

In addition to the 5k on the beach, the event will feature a Wellness Expo, tech t-shirts, sponsor goodies and finisher medals. Free snacks and beverages will be provided to participants, plus live music, children’s games, and a festive finish line celebration. Performing will be the 760 Union band.
“We will be celebrating the launch of Jump Start for Health groups in the community,” said Mandel. “Participants are encouraged to involve friends and family in fundraising for diabetes prevention, and opportunity drawings will be offered throughout the fundraising period.”
Sponsors for the Solana Beach Sunset 5k run-walk include The Doctors Company & The Doctors Insurance Agency, County of San Diego Health & Human Services Agency, City of Solana Beach and Tri City Medical Center. KUSI-TV has signed on as a media sponsor.
Fletcher Cove Beach is a small, sandy beach set within a secluded cove at the intersection of South Sierra Avenue and Plaza Street. The beach is a popular spot for swimming, surfing and kayaking. Restroom facilities, picnic tables, playground and a basketball court are located nearby. Fletcher Cove is locally known as the Pillbox because of its history as a World War II gunnery installation. No pooches or alcohol are allowed at the park.
Parking is available at several nearby parking lots, including: Transit Center, 106 North Cedros Ave.; The Distillery, 140 South Sierra Ave.; Plaza Street Parking Lot, 116 North Highway 101.
Founded in 2005, Champions for Health offers several health improvement and prevention initiatives that improve community health and wellness, access to care for all and support for physicians through engaged volunteerism. Its flagship program, Project Access San Diego, links volunteer specialist doctors with uninsured people who need healthcare services and cannot afford specialty surgeries. Other Champions for Health programs include free screenings for breast cancer, colorectal cancer and high blood pressure, along with flu immunizations, a speakers bureau and scholarships for medical students and residents planning to care for the medically underserved. For more information, visit www.ChampionsForHealth.org.