The Merrell Down & Dirty National Mud Run Series kicks off its 2011 season on Sunday, April 17 at Castaic Lake.

The series also debuts its first Night Mud Run on April 16.

The mud run features 5K and 10K off-road courses filled with military-style obstacles, commanding cargo climbs, wild water crossings and more. After the race, attendees will receive a free t-shirt and enjoy food and live entertainment. Local military personnel, public safety officers and police academy trainees are also invited to participate.

Proceeds will benefit Operation Gratitude, a charity organization that sends care packages to U.S. military personnel deployed overseas.

Castaic Lake is located at 32132 Castaic Lake Drive, Castaic 91384.

For more information and to register, visit downanddirtymudrun.com.