Star Wars-Themed "Course of the Force" Returns

Nerdist announced yesterday that Course of the Force, the lightsaber run that captivated the attention of Star Wars fans around the world, is returning July 9th – 16th, 2013.  Kicking off at Skywalker Ranch, the relay heads through San Francisco with stops along the California coastline before reaching the finish line— arriving just in time for the start of San Diego Comic-Con International. Nerdist Industries' founder Chris Hardwick will host the event, with stops along the way featuring "Conivals" where fans can enjoy live entertainment, expo booths, giveaways and more. "Our plan to run at Comic-con screaming with a lightsaber worked beyond our wildest dreams. People showed up! Lots of them! In cosplay! And we were able to grant more than 1000 wishes for Make-A-Wish!" said Chris Hardwick. "Last year we started in Santa Monica, this year, Marin, and hopefully next year Tatooine." Course of the Force reteams with the Make-A-Wish Foundation, all runner registration proceeds benefiting the charity.  In 2012,  Make-A-Wish kids participated in the opening and closing ceremonies of Course of the Force and running in the event. In addition to helping grant wishes, participants of Course of the Force will run quarter-mile segments down the California coast, passing off the official Course of the Force lightsaber. Registration is now open and each relay spot is $150, which includes a customized Hasbro lightsaber and the exclusive Course of the Force swag bag.  Runners are encouraged to be creative and wear their best Star Wars gear.