Middleburg Fitness Club's first annual Mutt Strut 5K Run and 1 Mile Walk will be off to the races November 18, among the scenic landscape of Middleburg and the charming campus of The Hill School. Gurvir Dhindsa, award-winning anchor on Fox 5 news, is the official event hostess. All profits benefit the Middleburg Humane Foundation.

Dhindsa was happy to accept the invitation to host the event. "When asked to host, how could I say no? In addition to the health benefits, think of all the good things we can do for the Middleburg Humane Foundation. Who could resist those cute, little faces?"

All ages are welcome to participate. The start time for the 1 mile walk is 8:30 a.m. The start time for the 5K run is 9:00 a.m. The start and finish line is in the Club parking lot. Awards will follow the completion of the run. This family event welcomes strollers and leashed dogs for the 1 mile walk. All participants will receive a special gift pack from the Middleburg Fitness Club.

Keith Hutcheson, owner of the Middleburg Fitness Club, shares his enthusiasm. "I see this event as an exciting opportunity to promote wellness, help a good cause and highlight the great town of Middleburg."

The registration fee for walkers and runners is $20 before November 1 and $25 after November 1. Those who register prior to November 1 are guaranteed a long-sleeve race t-shirt. To obtain a registration form, visit www.middleburgfitnessclub.com or stop by the Club at 7 West Washington Street in Middleburg. Start looking for registration forms in northern Virginia newspapers in mid-October. Middleburg Eccentric and Middleburg Life newspapers, BB&T, Saddlery Liquidators, Starbucks, LeHew Drilling, Middleburg Country Inn, The Shaggy Ram, and Country Chevrolet, among others, are sponsoring the event. Cash and pet supply donations will be accepted the day of the race (kitty litter, dry chow, dry dog or cat food only). For more information about registration or sponsorship opportunities, please contact Middleburg Fitness Club at (540) 687-6007.