Elvis Is Alive (and Off and Running)

12th annual Elvis Is Alive 5K promises a blur of sequins and gold shades

We're hoping that when a group of Elvis impersonators gather for the 12th annual Elvis Is Alive 5K race on Thursday, we'll be seeing more of the early-day svelte Elvis as opposed to the late-in-life too many fried peanut butter and banana sandwiches fat Elvis.  

Either way, it's time to get your blue suede shoes primed and ready, because your hound dogs might be barking and you might be all shook up by the time it's over. OK, we're done with the Elvis song titles (maybe just one more -- read on).

The light-hearted, non-competitive race will kick off on the lakefront bike path between Randolph and Monroe streets just west of the Columbia Yacht Club at 6:45PM. Runners will follow the course down to the Museum Campus and back again (presumably humming "Don't Be Cruel" along the way). During the race, clocks at each mile marker will keep track of your time (hope those blue suede shoes aren't pinching), and the top finishers (top three overall male and female runners and the "Fastest Elvis") will receive prizes.

The 5K benefits Girls on the Run, a nonprofit organization that promotes self-respect and healthy lifestyles for pre-teen girls through running. 

Of course, a post-race party will feature live music from Joe "Elvis" Tirrito along with the Anthony Smith Guitar Street Orchestra. Beer and food will also be provided (no word on those fried peanut butter-and-banana sandwiches). 

A word to the wise: Everyone dressed in an homage to the King will automatically jump to the head of the line for the designated "all-Elvis" start corral. So, press on those mutton chops, drape that cape and get ready to rock. Your body will thank you very much later.

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