More than 225 runners and walkers participated in the sixth R2R (Run to Remember) annual 5K Race hosted by the Grace Brethren Church in West Kittanning, Pa. It is a yearly race held on the Sunday nearest to the 9/11 anniversary. Team RWB (Red, White & Blue) ran eight miles prior to the race marking the 11th anniversary of the attack on our nation. Team RWB helps returning veterans reintegrate into civilian life.
The Kittanning church hosts this community event and provides complimentary hotdogs, soft-serve ice cream and drinks after the race as the awards are presented. The event is one of many community events the church sponsors each year.
Pastor Larry Edwards said, “It continues to grow each year. We had between 225 and 230+ runners and walkers take part. It is a community event with lots of emphasis on our church and school. We hired a professional announcer and had each runner wear ankle timing chips. It is a big deal here. Then afterwards, the gym is packed with participants watching a video program while they are fed hotdogs, soft-serve ice cream, brownies, etc.”
Edwards continued, “It is a good wholesome family event. And the cost is just $3. Wow-what a bargain! We get local sponsors to help out with the cost. We have our own professional ice cream machine and the local ice cream proprietor comes and donates his time and material.”