The 2010 Mercer Island Rotary Half Marathon is a chance for locals to challenge themselves and enjoy the scenic views that the Island offers.

This year, on the first day of spring, March 21, walkers, runners and joggers will take off from one end of the Island on a journey around it.

The weekend kicks off on Saturday, March 20, with the pre-race expo at 1 p.m. This year’s expo is being sponsored by the Ken Griffey Jr. Family Foundation.

On race day, registration begins at 6:30 a.m. and the half-marathon walk, sponsored by the Swedish Cancer Institute, begins at 7:30 a.m. with the Kids’ Dash starting at 8 a.m.

The 10k run will begin at 8:30 on Sunday morning and the 5k run and walk starts at 9 a.m.

The 10k run is a qualifying event for the Bloomsday race in Spokane, with a course running along the North end of the Island.

The Kids’ Dash is open to children ages 10 and under, with each child receiving a goodie bag and ribbon.

For more information, contact runinfo@mercerislandhalf.com.