Snow flurries blew, but on November 23rd, 2013, the United Way of La Porte County held the first 5K Run, Walk, & Roll - a timed 3.1 mile race organized to directly benefit kids in La Porte County currently receiving treatments at Riley Children's Hospital. Proceeds raised went directly to the families who are in need in the community.
Race participants received goodie bags from sponsors, a race t-shirt, professional photo coverage of the race, professional timing of the event, medals for the top finishers, as well as many more giveaways and prizes.
The course started and ended at the Blue Chip Casino, making its way through lakefront neighborhoods and the Michigan City Park.
“The wind numbed my face and the closer to the lake we got, the colder the wind got,” said runner Charlie Ryan. “But there was a hill at mile one and it definitely helped to warm us up.”
Aaron Crague took first place overall. He brought the Valparaiso High School boys cross country team along, who ran in the race as well. After the race, runners came in from the chilly air to a DJ, food, beer, free entry into raffles for prizes, free photos, and the presentation of age group and overall awards.
“We are excited to be a sponsor of such an event. It has been fun to give out bags here for the runners who braved the cold today,” said Katie Smith, Launch Manager of Midwest Nissan.
Laurie Wink of United Way echoed her thoughts, “This is the first event of its kind, but judging by the popularity it will continue to take place in the coming years. It raises a lot of awareness for what United Way does. We love to have fun when we raise funds.”
Sponsors of the event included: IU La Porte Hospital, Riley’s Children’s Hospital, Horizon Bank, Midwest Foods, Miller Lite, Blue Chip Casino Hotel & Spa, Michigan City Parks Department, Midwest Nissan, and the Northwest Athletic Club.
To find out more about the United Way of La Porte County, click here!
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Click here to see more photos from the race!