By JON WENDEL

Special to The Hays Daily News

On Saturday, athletes of all levels will have the opportunity to put their physical fitness to the test at the first-ever 40forty 5K run/walk and duathlon.

Beginning at 8 a.m. at Frontier Park West, the duathlon is a combination of running and biking, starting with a 5-kilometer run followed by a 33-kilometer bike ride and ending with a 2-kilometer run.

For the $15 registration fee, all participants will receive a T-shirt, race number and an entry for the prize drawing.

"We have received several donations from businesses around Hays for the drawing, including a very nice watch from Riddle's Jewelry," said Luke Ross, Hays, one of the event organizers.

Proceeds from the event will go to Invisible Children, a non-profit organization that raises awareness of the war-torn east African country of Uganda. According to the Web site Invisiblechildren.com, "In war-affected regions, we focus on long-term development, working directly with individuals and institutions that are eager to realize their full potential. Through education and innovative economic opportunities, we partner with affected communities and strive to improve the quality of life for individuals living in conflict and post-conflict regions."

"The 40forty name (for the event) came from the 40k traveled and the fact that a majority of the race will be on Old Highway 40," Ross said.

There will be classes for both male and female in the 5K run/walk and in the duathlon. In addition, there will be a team class for the duathlon. Participants have the option to do it on their own or create a relay team of up to three members.

Registration is being accepted online, and Ross said an early entry is recommended. But those missing the 11 p.m. Friday online registration deadline still will be able to register the morning of the event starting at 7. To register online, go to www.active.com and then search "40forty."

"Invisible Children just encourages people to stick with what they know to raise awareness in their communities. They even had a girl auction off a horse to donate the money to Invisible Children. Our interests are in fitness, so we decided to hold the duathlon," Ross said.

Having traveled to east Africa three different times, Ross said he has seen the effects of the war there first-hand, instilling in him a passion to raise awareness. Ross said he and others would be available at an information table set up at the park for those wanting to find out more about the Invisible Children.

Those who wish to get involved but do not want to compete are encouraged to volunteer.

"With more than a 20-mile course, there is always a need for extra help," Ross said. "Anyone that would like to volunteer or needing to complete some community service hours is welcomed to contact us."

Information on volunteering, donating and the course maps are on the Web site at www.hays40forty.blogspot.com.

Jon Wendel, Dodge City, is a senior at Fort Hays State University who is majoring in communication studies with an emphasis

in public relations.