Robert’s Run a community success

The 5th annual Robert’s Run was held in Hamilton on Saturday, August 5th. Around 750 in-person runners raced in the 10k, 5k, and 1 mile run/ walk, with a trifecta option to race in all three events. A steady rain kept the participants cool throughout the morning. In total, 1000 participants from all 50 states experienced the event in-person and virtually. The family friendly event featured a Kid’s Festival with kid’s games, activities, and a dunk tank.

The 2023 race ambassador was Galen Rupp, who is one of the United State’s most accomplished distance runners. Among other achievements, Rupp is a 4-time Olympian, a 2-time Olympic medalist, a 9-time USA National Champion in the 5,000 and 10,000 meter distances, and a 2-time winner of the USA Olympic Marathon Trials.

Rupp interacted with runners and onlookers, giving them encour- agement, handing out medals, and generally having a great time showing support wherever it was needed.

“This is such a remarkable event, I’m so happy to be involved,” said Rupp. “I’m just blown away by everything about this event: the organization, the location, the sense of community - truly inspiring.”

Race organizer Doug Martin was awed by the support of the community. “In the end, it’s all about community,” said Martin. “Families coming together, kids playing with parents and grandparents, friends coming together with friends. The whole point of the event is to bring people together, to savor the time we have here.”

Martin continued, “Our legion of volunteers created a safe, enjoyable experience for all of our participants. It was truly a community coming together in an active way to remember Robert Leonardi and connect with each other.”

All State, All Conference American Legion teams announced

The 2023 American Legion West District Class A All-Conference and All-State teams were announced, and a handful of Bitterroot Bucs and Bitterroot Red Sox were honored.

For the Bitterroot Bucs, Brodie Hinsdale was on the All-State and All-Conference teams. Gabe Philbrick and Troy Larson received

All-Conference honors, and Drew Wagner was Honorable Mention All-Conference.

For the Bitterroot Red Sox, Sawyer Townsend and Paul Brenneman were awarded All-Conference. Conner Ekin and Mason Anderson were both named Honorable Mention All-Conference.