The Troy Rotary Club is only one week away from its 5K Run and one-mile Fun Run/Walk to benefit PolioPlus.

The run will begin at 8 a.m. April 12, only eight days from now. The Fun Run begins at 8:30 a.m. Events will be at the Sportsplex

Interested runners, walkers and racers can pay $15 for their participation and the money will go to the charity PolioPlus.

"In 1985, Rotary International launched the PolioPlus Program to protect children worldwide from the cruel and fatal consequences of polio," said Carol Franks, of Troy's Rotary Club. "In 1988, the World Health Assembly challenged the world to eradicate polio."

Franks said Rotary and several partner agencies, the World Health Organization, the United Nations Children's Fund and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to name a few, have been successful in their quest.

"We have achieved a 99 percent reduction in the number of polio cases worldwide," Franks said. "Rotarians stand at the brink of a great victory and look forward to celebrating the global eradication of polio in 2005, the organization's centennial year."

Aside from the satisfaction that comes with eradicating polio, entrants in the race will also get some tangible prizes. Age groups will receive awards as will overall winners. Entrants will also be eligible for door prizes.

Water, PowerAde and snacks will be available after the race is over and the first 150 entrants will receive a T-shirt.

"We encourage everyone to come out and run, or walk, with your children, bring the strollers, whatever," Franks said. "We want to do our part to help eradicate this disease from the face of the earth."

Information is available at local banks and interested persons may call 670-3284. People can pre-register or register before 8 a.m. race day.