Santa Speedo Runners Back for Seconds [Trail of Lights 5k]

At this year's chilly Trail of Lights 5K race, don't be surprised if you happen upon a pack of sexy sprinters sporting little more than red swim briefs.

They're the Santa Speedo Runners, and they'll be braving frostbite in the name of spreading holiday cheer while aiding local nonprofit OutYouth, a support group for GLBT teens in Central Texas.

Austin's branch of the Santa Speedo Run—similar events are held in Toronto, Boston and elsewhere—had a great start last year; over a dozen joggers participated, two of whom even placed in the overall top ten, and the fundraiser turned out to be OutYouth's second largest of the year next to the AIDS Walk.

This year, local organizer Edward Cruz anticipates an even larger turnout, and hopes to host different subgroups of participants based on their skill level. Elite runners, joggers, and walkers are all are invited to take part in this new holiday tradition — here's what you'll need to do in advance:

• Register for the official Trail of Lights 5K Race online or by mail. Early registration before December 10th is $22 for adults, which goes up to $25 after the cutoff date. Late registration will be available at the Zilker Park Moonlight Tower on the day of the race, from noon to 5:30 p.m.
• Make a donation directly to OutYouth either online or by mail. Santa Speedo Run hopes that each participant can raise at least $25, all of which goes to the charity.
• Let 'em know that you'll be there, either by emailing Edward (edward.cruz_@_melior.com), signing their Evite page, or RSVPing on the Facebook invitation.
• Spread the word — invite your friends and family to join you!

Footage from last year's run is below. You can also check out our snapshots recap from the race.