Preparations are underway for the 33rd annual Run for the Roses, which will be held in Prentiss Saturday, April 8.

The Run for the Roses is one of Mississippi’s premier road races and attracts runners/walkers from across the southeastern United States.

The 5K Run/Walk will begin at 8 a.m., followed by the one-mile race and the ¼ mile pre-school run.

The Run For The Roses event is produced by the Run for the Roses committee with extensive community support.

Unity in the Community will be in charge of the vendors for this year’s event. Any one interested in a spot for food or arts and crafts may call Linda Speight at 601-792-2692. There will be a $30 vendor fee to participate.

Profits from the race go toward scholarships for local high school students as they pursue higher education and other worthy projects in the community.

Numerous awards will be presented in age group order, including $100 cash prizes for the overall male and female winners in the run and walk and $50 to Masters and Grand Masters winners.

The number of years this event has existed is a testament to the love of running in south Mississippi.

The walking division provides competition for individual and team walkers. The one-mile run/walk is a favorite of local and visiting youngsters as well as adults of all ages.

Finishers will receive a race t-shirt, beverages and Polk’s Meats Old World Polish Sausage sandwiches.

To honor an annual tradition, all female finishers receive a long-stem red rose as they cross the finish line.

The Run for the Roses began in 1984 as community leaders wanted to promote a healthy lifestyle, spotlight the county and give residents a day of fun.

Registration forms will soon be available at Prentiss City Hall, M.L. Arrington Fitness Center, the Prentiss Headlight, and on the website at www.runfortheroses5k.com.

Volunteers are always needed and welcome. For more information, visit the website or contact Missy Jones at 601-792-5741