Kayakers race during a previous Kayak for the Warriors in Pine Knoll Shores. Registration is open for this year’s three-day event. Photo: Contributed

PINE KNOLL SHORES — Runners, kayakers and supporters can register now for the 12th annual Kayak for the Warriors.

The three-day event beginning May 25 with a 5K and 10K beach run, Warrior reception with live and silent auctions, 3.2-mile kayak and paddle board race and barbecue lunch benefits Hope For The Warriors.

Founded at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, the national nonprofit assists veterans, service members and military families through programs including clinical health and wellness, sports and recreation and transition services. Kayak for the Warriors has raised over $515,000 since 2008 for Hope For The Warriors and its programs.

“Kayak for the Warriors is blessed with a wonderful, committed volunteer force of local residents,” said Jean McDanal, coordinator for the event, in a statement.

“They tirelessly invest numerous hours in securing items and food for the auction, folks to set up and take down tents, do the timing, procure water and other drinks. In addition to spending hours on the computer inputting data, distributing brochures, setting up run routes and so many other things,” McDanal added. “Thank you to all of you who make this event so special. It’s what makes Pine Knoll Shores so great.”

The event starts at 8 a.m. May 25 with the 5K and 10K beach runs at the Inn at Pine Knoll Shores, formerly The Clamdigger. Registration for the 5K is $25 and $35 for the 10K, with both including a T-shirt.

The North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores is hosting May 30 the annual Warrior Reception, with silent and live auctions beginning at 6 p.m. Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the door, and include heavy appetizers and access to the aquarium’s exhibits.

The kayak and paddle board race begins at 10 a.m. June 1. The 3.2-mile race starts at Garner Park and moves through Bogue Sound and the Pine Knoll Shores canals. Registration is $50 for a single kayak and $100 for a tandem. Both include a T-shirt and lunch. The warrior trophy is given to the paddler who brings in the most donations for his or her team.

For those preferring to stay on land while supporting local veterans, military members and families, lunch is $10 per person or $15 per family.

Pre-registration is encouraged for all events at k4tw.org. Onsite registration is also available.

“Each year, the Town of Pine Knoll Shores and the Crystal Coast community continue to amaze us,” said Robin Kelleher, co-founder and president/CEO of Hope For The Warriors, in a release. “For 12 years, this community has helped create positive change in veterans, service members and military families’ lives and keep hope alive, and we are appreciative of all that they do.”

For more information visit hopeforthewarriors.org, Facebook or Twitter.