The fifth annual SWSS Fire Mountain to Fountain 15K race will take place Sunday, March 8.

Last year’s race had almost 900 finishers, with 22 state age records set due to the talented elite field. The 2015 race is expected to be just as competitive.

New in 2015 is a different finish for the 15K and the addition of a 5K run/walk. The change to the 15K course is for 2015 only to accommodate construction on Saguaro Blvd.

Instead of finishing on Saguaro, the race will continue on Fountain Hills Blvd. to Palisades, then to Avenue of the Fountains. The finish down Avenue of the Fountains will be fast and scenic for participants.

The new 5K is to broaden appeal and open the event to more people. The 5K will start at 7:30 a.m. at the finish line of the 15K race. The 5K course will go out and back on the last 1.5 miles of the 15K route to minimize impact on the community, and allow 5K runners to experience the same finish line as the 15K participants.

The race is designed to be challenging enough for both elite and recreational runners, as it follows a beautiful desert landscape on a net downhill, chip timed, USATF certified course.

It is one of only two 15K races in Arizona.

The early March date provides an advantage of reliably excellent racing weather, and makes it a perfect prep race for the Boston Marathon and other spring races. The prize money of $10,000 is the largest in any Arizona race, attracting elite Open and Master’s runners.

“In our fifth year we felt comfortable adding to the event and think the new 5K will be very popular,” said race director John Reich.

“Our key sponsors are all back and participation is on track to set a record.”

In addition to the 5K and 15K, there are free kids’ races near the finish line giving race day a family atmosphere with two playgrounds and a bounce house for diversion, plus a Chipotle kids’ meal to every child who participates.

“We hope entire families can enjoy a morning outing and take advantage of a race events for everyone,” Reich added.

For more information, visit the event website at M2F15K.com