The 25th Annual Oracle Run, the Oracle Historical Society's fall fundraiser that features a 10-kilometre course over rural terrain and a one-mile "fun run," will be held this year on Saturday, October 27th at 9 a.m.

What sets the Oracle Run apart is that Darryl Klesch, the director and a stonemason by trade, likes to "art" the course with stone hoodoos and friendly – if somewhat diabolical – Halloween characters. "We all have fond memories of the artwork on the road, beautiful stuff -- some years, fantastic!" SAR vice-president Elisa Kinder said.

For the second year in a row, the Southern Arizona Roadrunners are featuring the Oracle Run as an official event. Klesch is confident this year will produce the biggest turnout yet.

The race, which starts at 9 a.m., is open to runners of all ages with men and women's divisions in every age group, from 12 and under to 70 plus. For those who prefer a little less challenge, the event also features a one-mile Fun Run/Walk.

All entrants receive a free tee-shirt, which is designed each year by a different local artist, as well as random prizes donated by local merchants. Trophies are given to winners in several categories during an awards ceremony after the race.

The race fee is $25 if received by Oct. 22 and $35 thereafter. Race day registration and packet pick-up begin at 7:30 a.m. The race begins in front of the Acadia Ranch Museum, located in Oracle at 825 Mt. Lemmon Road just off American Avenue.

For information and a printable entry form, visit the Oracle Historical Society Web site at http://www.oraclehistoricalsociety.org/ohs/events.html or call the Acadia Ranch Museum at (520) 896- 9609. Make checks payable to the Oracle Historical Society, P.O. Box 10, Oracle, AZ 85623.