Formerly a stand-alone event, the annual Pride Run is now a full-fledged part of Stonewall Month for the first time in 2012. It’s the 22nd year for the June 5K run, co-sponsored by Front Runners, Atlanta’s LGBT running group, and the Atlanta Pride Committee.

Bernie Colligan of Front Runners describes the participants as a healthy mix of competitive runners eying victory and newcomers wanting to walk and support the event.

“We have a lot of our own members and then people who have never done this before,” he said.

The route will cover an area through and near Piedmont Park. In addition to the run is a Friday night pre-dinner taking place at Einstein’s from 7-9 p.m. and a brunch at 5 Napkin Burger from 9:30-11 a.m. after the run.

Colligan hopes for a crowd of 500 this year. A portion of the proceeds from this year’s event go to Jerusalem House and Atlanta Pride.

The Pride Run features men’s and women’s divisions, as well as several age groups, so there are “lots of chances to win medals,” Colligan said.

For those participating, he suggests drinking lots of water beforehand to stay hydrated, and arrive early, as parking can be tough near Piedmont Park, especially when an event is happening.

His final advice: “Don’t overdo it out there.”