The fourth annual Race for the Ring is coming to Sacramento on July 14, 2012. This text messaged based treasure hunt on bike through downtown Sacramento directly benefits programs at Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services (SFBFS). Teams of two will pedal, scoot and wheel their way through downtown Sacramento guided by text message clues in search of more than $10,000 in prizes.

Each week leading up to the event, we will interview someone who is involved in the race to find out why they are racing for a reason.

Today's interview is with Stephanie Petrakos, an employee of event sponsor Five Star Bank.  Stephanie has been with the company for six years, starting as a teller and working her way up to her current position as Vice President, Credit Administrator.  She assists the Chief Credit Officer in managing the bank's loan portfolio. 

In her free time, she loves to go camping and backpacking.  This past weekend she climbed Clouds Rest at Yosemite National Park, called the 9,900 foot scene "spectacular" due to its 360 degree view of the Yosemite Valley and Half Dome.

Racers will be racing around town in search of jewelry graciously donated by Rogers Jewelry Company. What is your favorite piece of jewelry?

The wedding ring my husband gave me four years ago.

What are you looking forward to the most about this year's event?

All of the food, music, and entertainment at the after party. It’s nice to sit back and relax after the race.

What motivates you to be part of this cause?

Given the down economy and high unemployment rate, there’s an abundance of “everyday” people that need some temporary assistance. Sacramento Food Bank and Family Services is an excellent way to reach out and help them.

If you participated last year, what was your favorite thing about the race?

My co-workers and I like to challenge each other. There’s all this hype about who will be on who’s team, and which team will beat the others. It’s fun to have a little healthy banter around the office. Just for the record – my teammate, Lainey and I are going to win!

What is your role with Race for the Ring 2012 and/or Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services?

My company has sponsored this event for the past three years. We are a "Ring Seeker" sponsor this year. Our Chief Financial Officer, Krista Snelling, has sat on the Board of Directors for Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services since 2010.

What is one thing the public might not (but should) know about Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services?

The new Education Center has a Demonstration Garden where clients can take gardening workshops and/or just stop by to talk to their local gardener. It’s a very cool program where the community they serve can learn how to grow their own delicious and nutritious food!

Anything else you'd like to add about yourself or the event?

Race for the Ring is probably the most entertaining and well-organized event I’ve been to. It’s a great way to raise awareness and funds for [SFBFS] all while enjoying the company of others, challenging yourself intellectually, learning the historic/popular landmarks downtown, and getting some exercise. Plus, there’s great food, entertainment, and prizes in the end. Who could ask for more?

For more information about the event or to register to participate, please visit the Race for the Ring website.

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For more information about Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services, please visit www.sacramentofoodbank.org.