The annual Kirkland half marathon will take place on Mothers Day, May 8 this year.

The event, which benefits the Hope Heart Institute, includes a half marathon run, half marathon walk, 5K run/walk and a free kids dash.

The race begins and ends at Juanita Beach Park in downtown Kirkland and the half marathon course takes participants through each of the Kirkland boroughs.

Registration can still be completed, through Wednesday, May 4 in person at Everyday Athlete in Kirkland or via mail by May 2.

Race packets can be picked up from Everyday Athlete on Friday, May 6 from noon to 8 p.m. or on Saturday, May 7 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

On race day day of registration begins at 6 a.m., and the half marathon walk starts at 7 a.m. The half marathon will begin at 7:30 a.m., followed by the 5K at 8 a.m. and the kids dash at 9:15 a.m.

Over 3,000 athletes are expected to compete in the event this weekend.

Due to the race a variety of downtown and surrounding area streets will be closed. Most roads along the race course will have lane closures from 6:50 a.m. until approximately 11:30 a.m. Juanita Drive N.E. from 93rd Ave. N.E. to 98th Ave. N.E. and 97th Ave. N.E. from Juanita Drive N.E. to N.E. 119th Way will be closed from 6 a.m. until approximately noon.

The Hope Heart Institute researchers are studying new ways to combat heart disease, the No. 1 killer of Americans each year.

To learn more about the event visit the race’s Web site.