The Polson “Mud Run” is celebrating its fifth anniversary at 9:30 a.m. Saturday at the Polson Fairgrounds.

Last year, the $1,500 raised by the races benefited a multitude of programs for the local chapters of the Boys and Girls Clubs in the Mission Valley, who really sticks to their mission statement of promoting an active lifestyle, according to Boys and Girls Director of Operations Amy Vaughan.

“That is what (our mission statement) is really about is promoting an active lifestyle from the club culture standpoint and that is emphasized in everything that we do,” Vaughan said. “It is an outward expression of what we are about on a daily basis. We have a lot of fun promoting healthy activity that is something that they can do in the family. Family engagement is also an important component to us and our outward extension to our communities, our kids and the club.”

Vaughan said the “Mud Run” has grown every single year.

“Every year we have more and more people participating,” Vaughan said. “We have most people from Montana RSVPing and signing up far in advance. Sitting here right next to the online registrations, we still have a huge influx the last four or five days and we will accept the walk up people on the day of.”

Promoting a fun, family-oriented atmosphere is the aim of the “Mud Run,” Vaughan said.

“The thing that I like about the big event like “Iron Man” and more national recognizing events is that (everyone involved) has a good time and a good experience,” Vaughn said. “The event brings a small town community feel to it as well when they come to something like the “Mud Run.” A lot of times people at the “Mud Run” will run into people they know and cheer each other on. There is an external influx and there is an opportunity for everyone to participate.”

Interested participants can register the day of the competition. Kids will pay $25 and adults are $40.

“I am really hoping for great weather because it is starting to warm up again and rain or not, (the participants) will still run through the mud,” Vaughan said. “I really enjoy seeing the families do it together. We are super motivated and accessible for families to do it together and it is a big deal opportunity for people to work together in an active way.”