HARMONY — The start of spring will kick off Saturday in the borough with three races.

The eighth annual Shamrock Shuffle will raise money for the Zelienople Rotary Club for its projects.

Organizer Joella Baker said the race series raised more than $20,000 last year.

“Rotary helps so much with the community, from the food pantry to scholarships to helping so many local organizations,” Baker said. “It really offers them the chance to give back more than they would otherwise.”

The day will have three races: a half-marathon, a 5K and a one-mile race.

The half-marathon has racers go through Harmony to Hartmann Road to Textor Hill Road and ends at Wood Street Park. Beer keg stands and Jell-O shots will be given optionally to people of legal drinking age at the top of the hill.

“It’s hysterical,” Baker said.

She said the half-marathon is challenging with its hilly path.

The 5K will have racers go through Harmony and on Evergreen Mill Road. The one-mile race also will have racers go through Harmony.

“We’re looking forward to a really fun event and hopefully no rain,” Baker said.

The half-marathon will start at 7:30 a.m., the 5K will start at 10 a.m. and the one-mile race will start at 10:45 a.m. at the Grace Church of Harmony.

Medals will be given to those who finish the races. Beer glasses will be given as awards, and each racer gets a loaf of gourmet cinnamon swirl bread.

More food will be served and a disc jockey will provide entertainment.

Those who want to register can sign up at the Grace Church of Harmony from 4 to 6 p.m. Friday, e-mail Baker at joella@zoominternet.net or sign up on active.com.

Registrations also will be taken on race day.