KeyBank and the City of Tacoma will host the sixth annual Bank to Bay 10K Run, 5K Run/Walk and 1K Kids’ Run Sunday, Sept. 11, in downtown Tacoma. Registration opens at 7:30 a.m., the 1K Kids’ Run begins at 9 a.m., followed by the 10K Run at 9:20 a.m. and the 5K Run/Walk at 9:50 a.m. Last year, 1,737 runners and walkers tied up their laces for the event – and this year Bank to Bay is aiming for 2,000 registered participants and at least that many spectators.

Bank to Bay began in 2000, when KeyBank and the City made a pact to promote downtown Tacoma. Additional partners include Comcast, KJR 95.7 FM, Regence BlueShield, The News Tribune and TUI Consulting.

“We are glad to be able to continue our partnership with KeyBank as a sponsor for this fun, family event,” said Tacoma City Manager Eric Anderson. “This is one of our many efforts to attract people into the core of our City so they can witness all of the growth and charm our community has to offer.”

For the sixth consecutive year, Bank to Bay will provide $10,000 to the Tacoma Public Schools Help-A-Student Fund, which furnishes necessities such as school supplies, clothing and shoes to students.

“The Help-A-Student Fund benefits our public school children by meeting their basic needs so they can concentrate on learning,” said Jim Washam, president of KeyBank’s South Puget Sound District. “Bank to Bay is a wonderful way for KeyBank to support our local community by bringing together families and friends to help promote this very worthy cause.”

The USA Track and Field-certified course, which is closed to traffic, begins in the Museum District between South 15th and 17th streets on Pacific Avenue and runs behind Old City Hall and along Schuster Parkway to Ruston Way.

Everyone is invited to take part in Bank to Bay – runners, walkers, wheelchair athletes, kids and families. Registration is $25 for those who sign-up before close of business on Saturday, Sept. 10, and $30 on the day of race. Once registered, you will receive a bib number, timing chip and New Balance Lightening Dry ultimate performance shirt. Kids 10 and younger may participate for free in the 1K Run, and the first 200 kids to register receive a free T-shirt. For more information about Bank to Bay 2005, visit the Web site at http://www.ontherunevents.com/banktobay.