Each year, we partner with local organizations and businesses to time their races. One that we are extra excited to support is the Laps for Luis 5K. This race honors local runner Luis Perez, who lost his life to suicide. Besides being a great race, the event raises funds for local organizations that are working to address the mental health crisis in our area. The 5K, now in its 3rd year, also features a “Lap for Life” where the community will walk one lap to honor and remember of all those lost to suicide.

We chatted with Sonia Perez, the race director for the event, to learn more.

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and the Laps for Luis race?

The Laps for Luis 5K race is to remember our loved one Luis Daniel Perez, he loved to run. At the same time this race is to create mental health and suicide prevention awareness. This year funds will be donated to two local organizations that help the community with mental health. 

This race will be held on Sunday, May 19, 2024 at 9 am in Lakeshore Park in Dalton, GA.

What about Luis? Can you tell us a bit about him and who he was? He was clearly very special.

He was, IS A VERY SPECIAL PERSON to all of us. He was a kind hearted and dedicated to running person. He loved to run and travel and try new food. He had an entrepreneurial mindset. He is forever in our hearts until we see him again! 

Most people can't imagine going through the loss of a loved one in this way, let alone organizing an event to bring something positive out of a tragedy. Was there a specific moment that you can recall where your family decided that they were going to do something?  

No, it was actually Raul Flores, Luis’ previous cross country teammate that came up with the idea and we supported the idea. 

I know that the race brings awareness to the mental health and suicide crisis that is currently going on but do the funds raised benefit any specific organization?

This year the funds will go to The Compassion House and CLILA. 

Is there a way for people to support the mission of Laps for Luis beyond running the race? 

At this point, just donating funds and/or participating in the event and also sharing the event with others.

What about the race itself? When and where is it, and what should runners expect on race day? Is there anything else unique about it? 

This race will be held on Sunday, May 19, 2024 at 9 am in Lakeshore Park in Dalton, GA. There will be prizes for the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place finishers both male and female. 

Anything else you would like to share? 

You can also register the day of the race.