Running is a popular option for exercise, stress relief and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. In Lantana, it’s also a way to raise money for charity.
The proceeds from this year’s Lantana Community Association’s 5th Annual 5K Run will benefit the Cumberland Presbyterian Children’s Home in Denton and the Jennifer Woltman family.
Jennifer Woltman is a Blanton Elementary School first-grade teacher who had twins born prematurely at just 25 weeks; only one survived.
The community association’s board hopes to make this year’s event the most bountiful one to date.
“The past two years, we raised over $8,000,” said Mark Norton, the association’s community manager. “But, if we can hit the $10,000 mark this year, I think that would be a nice realistic goal and a great thing to see happen,”
In previous years, Norton estimates between 250 to 300 runners competed, as this event draws both runners and awareness from the surrounding communities.
In addition to all the details to plan and organize the event, Norton said the association’s biggest challenge is acquiring sponsors for the race. He and his fellow 5K committee volunteers are beating the street, talking with local businesses and generating excitement and awareness.
“We are always in need of volunteers on race day for traffic control,” Norton said. “Our main goal is that each participant is able to run the race safely.”
The race is on Saturday, Sept. 13, and will start at Blanton Elementary School and wind its way through parts of the Lantana Hike and Bike Trail and surrounding neighborhoods. Norton said it is great to witness the runners’ excitement and sense of achievement as they cross the finish line amid cheers from the crowd. Even better is making a positive impact on someone in need.
“When you get to hand the big check to the charity, that makes all the hard work you put in worthwhile,” Norton said.
Participants of all ages are invited to run or walk, and families are welcome to cheer on the runners while enjoying the camaraderie of the close-knit community.
Entry fees are $25 for adults and $15 for children ages 12 and under. Prices will increase after Aug. 31 and again on race day.
For more details, or to register, sponsor, volunteer or donate directly to the Woltman family, visit www.runlantana5k.com.
