Register Now for The Razor Sharp Minds Foundation’s Fall Classic Run to Support Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Research

The Razor Sharp Minds Foundation’s fifth annual Fall Classic Run 10K, 5K and kids’ races will be held on Sunday, October 21st at Menomonee Falls High School in Menomonee Falls. The event benefits the Razor Sharp Minds Foundation, which funds regional research efforts aimed at finding a cure for Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. The Dementia Research Center at the Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW) is one of the prime beneficiaries.

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia and the fifth leading cause of death in the United States among adults aged 65 and older, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. By the year 2050, as many as 16 million Americans are predicted to be living with Alzheimer’s, unless a cure is found.

“Among the different avenues of research, lifestyles appear to be related in the risk of developing Alzheimer’s,” said Piero Antuono, MD, MCW Professor of Neurology and Biophysics and Director of the Dementia Research Center at the Medical College. “Physical activity and regular exercise seem to have a strong positive effect on the prevention of cognitive decline in the elderly.”

Dr. Antuono established the Dementia Research Center in 1985 to provide comprehensive diagnostic, follow-up, and research services, as well as educational opportunities for the community and physicians.

The Fall Classic Run is a competitive event featuring 10K and 5K races beginning at 10:30 and 10:40 a.m., respectively. The 1/4 mile kids’ run begins at approximately 11:30 a.m. The races follow scenic courses through Menomonee Falls with views of the Menomonee River and surrounding neighborhoods.

The Fall Classic Run is open to both experienced, competitive runners and casual runners alike. Walkers are welcome to participate in the 5K. Individual or team registration is available online or by mail before October 19th, and on race day near the start/finish area. The cost is $27 for the 10K and $23 for the 5K. The kids’ race is $5 per child and includes a medal and a shirt.

“We’re all affected by dementia in some way,” said Aaron Nodolf, who started the Razor Sharp Minds Foundation in 2009 after watching his father-in-law’s struggle with Alzheimer’s disease. “If it hasn’t been diagnosed in one of your own loved ones, it’s stricken the friend or relative of someone you know.”

“This is our way of making a difference,” said the vice president of Razor Sharp Minds, Trae Hoepner, who lost his mother, grandmother and an aunt to Alzheimer’s disease. “We’re proud to be doing our part through running -- a habit that can help keep your mind and body healthy.”

Razor Sharp Minds presented a grant of $6,000 to MCW’s Dementia Research Center following the 2011 Fall Classic Run. The event has raised nearly $20,000 since 2009.

To register or volunteer for the race, visit www.thefallclassicrun.com. To learn more about the Razor Sharp Minds Foundation, go to www.razorsharpminds.org.