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Family Walk/Run attracts many participants

Families soar into new fitness tradition

Sept. 5, 2014

By Sami Fischer

Silver Lake is known for its traditions. Whether it is sports or academics, the eagles are known to succeed. So why not add family fitness to the mix?

On Saturday, Aug. 30, Silver Lake started the tradition of the Eagle Family Walk/Run. Ann Rupp, school nurse and event organizer, shared her thoughts on the event.

“For a holiday weekend and the very first event, we had an incredible turnout,” Rupp said.

There were over 325 participants in the one-mile walk/run, and Rupp said she thought the event was a success.

“It was so awesome to see students and their families crossing the finish line together, but I would also like to see the junior high and high school students getting involved, whether it be running the race or helping with it,” Rupp stated.

Rupp explained ways she thought she and Shannon Bergmann, co-creator, could improve the event.

“We are thinking about adding a few ‘fun’ things to the run, maybe some obstacles, water guns, or water balloons,” she stated.

Jersey Manhart, third-grader, ran the race with her friends.

"I liked it because it's good for everybody who did the fun run to stay healthy," she said.

The high school cheerleaders and school mascot were at the finish line cheering people on. Rupp explained how she thought those elements added to the race.

“It added excitement to the end of the race and school spirit. Some of the parents and kids told me that hearing the cheerleaders cheering pushed them to finish faster,” she stated.

Rupp received a grant from the Department of Education-Team Nutrition and donations from local businesses and community members to make the event a reality.

“The grant from KDHE Team Nutrition we used to provide the breakfast and water bottles. The other donations helped cover the cost of the students’ shirts,” Rupp said.

Granola bars, bananas, and water were distributed to all participants after the race. All student racers also received a free T-shirt.

Rupp said this event could not have gone on without the support or involvement of the following donors and businesses: Paragon Financial Group LLC; Derek & Christin Thompson; Dr. Lance Eisenbarth; Frieden, Unrein & Forbes LLP- Matthew Bergmann; Walt’s CARSTAR, McAbee CARSTAR & CARSTAR Walt’s North; and Wehner’s Thriftway.

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Contact Information

USD 372
200 Rice Rd
P.O. Box 39
Silver Lake, Kansas 66539
Map
Phone: 785-582-4026
Fax: 785-582-5259