The first annual Glow The Distance 5K was a great succes for the race’s organizers as they raised over $3,000 to send to their Compassion International sponsor child, Helen, and to the Compassion Center she attends in Ethiopia. 

 

The race was held June 13 at dusk with participants adorned in brightly-colored outfits and as many glow sticks as they could fit on their bodies. The course was lined with glow sticks as well and there was a prize given for the person who "glowed all out." Prizes were also given to the first, second, and third finishers for men, women and kids.  

 

The event was organized by three local youngsters — Kaitlyn Yoerg, Jackie Yoerg and Jamie Sewall.

 

The money raised will help Helen and other families in her community that are living in poverty. The support from the Yoergs and Sewall helps with educational, physical, health, and spiritual needs. 

 

“When we started putting this event together, we expected to get around 50 participants and wanted to send $700 to Helen,” said Kaitlyn. “We over tripled those numbers thanks to all of our participants, sponsors, and volunteers.” 

 

The race was originally on the calendar for June 6 but was rescheduled due to poor weather. The girls knew the last minute reschedule would hurt their participation but they were still pleased with the turnout they had.

 

“Around 135 people still ran at the event and many others came to cheer on their friends and listen to the live band that played all throughout the night,” said Yoerg. 

 

The band — made up of local musicians including Jill Zimmerman, Joey Perry, John Hollingsworth and Jordan Maiers — provided great entertainment before the event, during the race and afterwards. The event also featured a photo tent, bonfire and glow volleyball afterwards. 

 

“We had a blast putting this event on and it was cool to see how it all came together,” said Kaitlyn. “We're very thankful for all of our generous sponsors and helpful volunteers who helped make it a success. There were several people who put a lot of time and energy into the event and we're very thankful for them. We hope everyone who attended had a great time! We're glad to have one year under our belt and are looking forward to making it an annual event.”