The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Dentistry student group Miles for Smiles will sponsor second annual Cleft Palate Gallop 5K Sept. 20, 2009, with proceeds benefiting the UNC Craniofacial Center.

The race, which includes a fun walk added this year, will begin at 9 a.m. and end at the University's Old Well.

Last year's inaugural five kilometer (3.1-mile) event drew more than 200
participants and raised $2,500. Organizers said they hope for even more
participants this year.

"Last year, we had an excellent response from the local running community and the dental school," said Savannah Gelesko, a fourth-year dental student and race organizer.

"This year, we added a fun walk in hopes of increasing participation by families and their children who receive treatment at the UNC Craniofacial Center."

The center serves patients who have cleft lip, cleft palate, and other craniofacial anomalies. The entrance fee is $15 for the race and fun walk. Prizes will be awarded to the top three male and female finishers.

All who register for the run or walk will receive a T-shirt. A raffle will be held after the race to give away numerous prizes donated by local businesses.

More information, including online registration, is available at cleft palate gallop.

To read more about cleft palate, go to cleft palate .

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