The Rotary Club of Wellington invites runners and walkers of all ages to come out for fun, fitness and philanthropy on Saturday, Sept. 7 at Wellington Amphitheater.
Formerly known as the Jeff Annas Memorial Firefighters 5K, which ran for nearly a decade, the Race for the Red & Blue First Responders 5K supports and honors Palm Beach County fire-rescue and law enforcement charities.
Race Committee Chair Larry Kemp is proud to carry on this local racing tradition and encourages everyone to participate as a runner, walker, volunteer or spectator. “As a community, it should be our responsibility to support our first responders,” he said.
The Rotary Club of Wellington and the Village of Wellington teamed up on last year’s race, raising more than $50,000. Wellington Mayor Anne Gerwig hopes to build on that momentum this year in support of all local first responders.
“Wellington is proud to host the Race for the Red & Blue, recognizing the strength, perseverance and courage of firefighters, EMTs, deputies, police officers, 911 Operators and their families in our local community,” she said. “First Responders put their lives on the line for us every day, as they face hardships that most of us will never know. We hope that this race will bring our community together as we recognize the service and sacrifice of the people who dedicate their lives to protecting ours.”
The race is open to runners and walkers with a goal to reach 1,000 participants. The course is officially approved, and the race is professionally timed by Accuchip.
Race shirts and medals will be provided to registered participants. Trophies will be presented to top finishers.
For parents in need of childcare during the event, the “kids corral” opens at 6:30 a.m. in the Wellington Community Center. Kids will enjoy games, activities and movies. Kid-friendly food and beverages will be served.
Check-in/registration begins at 6:30 a.m. with a start time of 7:30 a.m. The awards ceremony is set for 8:45 a.m.
The Rotary Club of Wellington thanks the following sponsors: the Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, the Winter Equestrian Festival, Florida Crystals, the Allstate Insurance Foundation, Wellington Regional Medical Center, the Retreat of Palm Beach, the Village of Wellington, the South Florida Fairgrounds, Baptist Health, Oliver’s Harvest, Akel Homes, and Lesser, Lesser, Landy and Smith.
To register for the race, visit www.wellington5k.com. To learn more about sponsoring the event, or becoming a volunteer, e-mail Kemp at larry.kemp@comcast.net.
