Dash of the Titans
Northview’s cross country team hosts a 5k fundraiser.
Upasna Kotakonda, Photo Editor
Megan Serfontein, Staff Writer
On Sept. 21, Northview’s cross country team hosted a 5k fundraiser. This was the second year that the team had this community-run fundraising event. Before they created the 5k, they sold car wash cards and hosted their own car washes. The 5k however, seems to be more successful and produces a larger community turnout and revenue for the program.
“We decided to do something we all wanted to do and are passionate about,” senior and cross-country runner and senior Tyler Cato said.
The revenue from the 5k is used to offset the costs of out-of-town races, sweatshirts, t-shirts for the runners, gear bags for new runners, and the new uniforms this year.
While the event is one Saturday and only lasts for a couple of hours, the planning is much more extensive. Six months prior to the event, they hire a timing company. The coach and school staff then meet with the company once a month to get everything set up. A couple of months before the date, the online process is set up for the participants to sign up. On the day of the race, the timing company helps set up, get race numbers for the participants, obtain medals and prizes for the winners, and organize volunteers to help with first aid and water station.
This community-based event is popular among the coaches, runners, and parents because of its value. The support surrounding the event drives the team to want to continue with hosting the 5k. The 5k also encourages friends and families of the cross-country team to get involved with something their child or friend is passionate about. It also attracts members of the community that would not normally be interested in Northview cross country to show their support. It also allows the runners to take a break from their rigorous running schedule and participate in a fun event. For those that are unable to run, it is still a pleasurable event at which to volunteer.
“They [the participants of the race] can share similar experiences and create new connections and relationships with others not only at Northview, but in our community. In addition, an event such as this encourages a focus on health and fitness,” parent Meghann Gavin said.
The race the 5k started at 8 a.m. at the Northview track. The event brought out families, students, and community members. The whole 5k ran around the Northview campus, making it safe for all the participants and volunteers involved. Unfortunately, injuries still did occur, but after receiving first aid on the sidelines they still finished with a happy and positive demeanor. The total mileage of the event was 3.22 miles and a total ascent of 188.37 ft. In the end, Cato was the winner. Overall, it was a day filled with positivity, exercise, and community.
“We really love doing it and our hope is that gains popularity every year and really turns into a staple of our program,” coach Anthony Cianciola said.
