Nutty Cutters 5k

Here is a chance for runners of all ages to race the MILE -- FOR FREE!!

• This is a FREE EVENT! There will be no race shirts, but there will be participation ribbons and age group 1-3 place ribbons.

• The races will be held by age and grade level beginning at 8 am and Noon!

The West Antelope Valley Education Foundation (WAVE) and the High Desert Runners are hosting these races on the track at Joe Walker Middle School as part of the Empowering Youth Festival.

• The festival runs from 9am to 1pm.

• This is a fun event for families to bring their children and participate in the day’s activities! This year's vendors and demonstrators are still being lined up, but some of the vendors at our last festival included Robotics Teams from AV High School District, free bike repair by Lancaster Sunrise Rotary and Lakay’s Cycling Club, and activities provided by Lancaster and Palmdale City Parks and Recreation. We also enjoyed Quartz Hill Karate demonstrations, dance, and cheerleading performances throughout the event. The outdoor activities included the Go Green BMX Show, Excel Tennis, WAVE Kindness Rock Painting, 4-H Club, and local food trucks. Two of the favorite community service vehicles were the Waste Management Trash Truck, and the AMR Ambulance.

Join us for Footsteps for Families, a community‑driven 5K run/walk and Kids 1K fun run supporting the Safe Families AV Chapter—held on the Saturday of Mother’s Day weekend. This special timing gives us the beautiful opportunity to honor and support mothers in our community, especially those facing the toughest seasons of life. By participating, you’re helping provide stability, encouragement, and practical support to moms who are working hard to keep their families safe and strong.

Footsteps for Families invites runners, walkers, families, and neighbors of all ages and abilities. Whether you’re aiming for a personal record, enjoying a leisurely stroll, or cheering on your little ones in the Kids 1K, you’ll be part of a warm, family‑friendly event featuring community partners, activities for children, and opportunities to learn about the mission of Safe Families.

All proceeds directly benefit the Safe Families AV Chapter, helping provide temporary hosting, mentorship, and wraparound support to families in crisis—ensuring children remain safe, supported, and with their parents. Your participation is truly a gift to local mothers who need a strong community behind them.

Highlights:

• All runners receive a custom finishers medal

• 5K Run / Walk registrations receive race T-Shirt

• Timed 5K run/walk

• Kids 1K fun run

• Family‑friendly activities and community engagement

• Supports local families in crisis through Safe Families AV

Age Division Awards:

0–13 Male / Female

14–18 Male / Female

19–29 Male / Female

30–39 Male / Female

40–49 Male / Female

50–59 Male / Female

60–69 Male / Female

70+ Male / Female

Step out, show up, and make a lasting impact—one stride at a time, and just in time to celebrate Mother’s Day.

Cherry Pickin’ 5K Wave Race

At Leona Valley Elementary

Saturday, May 23, 2026

The 5K WAVE RACE! This is a handicapped race based on Age-Graded tables.

If you are a good runner for your age or gender, you could WIN this race! Your start time will depend on your age and gender per the table found in the link below.

Custom medals will be given to the top 150 overall finishers – not based on age divisions. There are no age group divisions since the start of the race is handicapped by age and gender.

Up and Down 5k Course - Uphill first half, super fun downhill coming back!

All entries get a t-shirt – while supplies last.

There will also be a "Family Fun Run Wave." If you would like to just come out and run, jog or walk and not worry about time or placing you may opt for the Family Fun Run Wave, starting at 8:00 am. You will not be timed and you will not earn a finish placing.

This event is a fundraiser for the West Antelope Valley Education Foundation - WAVE. They provide funding for extracurricular opportunities such as field trips, clubs, sports, etc for the students of the Westside Union School District.

CLICK HERE FOR RACE FLYER WITH FURTHER DETAILS!

Including the Starting Wave Table!