Wellington Rotary To Host Sept. 8 Race To Benefit First Responders
RACE FOR THE RED AND BLUE By Melanie Kopacz
Each September, our country is reminded of the devastation that changed our world forever on 9/11. As a way of remembering all the first responders of 9/11, as well as honor those who protect us daily here in Palm Beach County, the Rotary Club of Wellington is calling for runners and walkers of all ages to take part in the inaugural “Race for the Red and Blue First Responders 5K” on Saturday, Sept. 8 at 7:30 a.m. at the Wellington Amphitheater. “These first responders go out every day, never knowing if they’ll come home or not, or what they’ll be facing,” Rotarian and race organizer Larry Kemp said. “On 9/11, firefighters went running toward the flames and smoke while everyone was running away. So, it’s an honor for us to do this.” The race, previously known as the Jeff Annas Memorial 5K, in honor of a fallen Palm Beach County paramedic, attracted as many as 1,000 runners. “The Jeff Annas race was one of the biggest 5K races in South Florida. We want to take it back to that and make it even bigger,” Kemp said. “I’m not sure we’ll do that this year, because the runners don’t know us yet, but we’re hopeful.” The Rotary Club of Wellington has been getting the word out across Palm Beach County.
“These first responders go out every day, never knowing if they’ll come home or not, or what they’ll be facing.” “We’re expecting a crowd of 500 to 700 people for our first year,” said Dr. Jonathan Chung, another Rotarian who is joining Kemp as a race organizer. “We’re doing everything in our power to meet their standards.” There will be age group awards from over 18 to 70 and up. “We’ll have some really high-quality finishers’ medals,” Chung said. “No
matter where you finish the race, you’re going to get a really nice medal. Our top finishers for the top three racers are going to have a pretty sizable trophy to take home with them.” There’s also a division for 18 and under, so kids are able to race if they want to. Pre-registration is ongoing through Friday, Sept. 7. It’s $40 for adults and $30 for participants under 18. Registrawellington the magazine | september 2018
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