When Manheim Township Education Foundation (MTEF) board member Julie Belser discussed her hopes for the first Red, White, and Blue Streaks 5K and Fun Run last year, she noted that the organization sought to create a positive community event that would bring families together at the school. The 2018 event fulfilled those dreams.
"It went so smoothly last year," noted Belser. "There was a light drizzle, but it stopped. It was cool and perfect running weather." In addition to the cooperative weather, another highlight of the event was the group of Landis Run Intermediate School teachers and staff who participated dressed in festive garb. "(They) were decked out in patriotic wear and tutus and just brought (the event) to life," said Belser.
This year's Red, White, and Blue Streaks 5K and Fun Run will start in the Manheim Township High School (MTHS) stadium, 115 Blue Streak Blvd., Lancaster, on Monday, May 27, which is Memorial Day. Day-of registration for the run will begin at 8 a.m. The run for children will be held at 9 a.m., and the 5K run/walk will begin at 9:30 a.m.
As with last year's event, the run will have a patriotic theme. Participants who dress in patriotic gear will have their names entered to win a prize. A prize will also be awarded to the Manheim Township School District (MTSD) teacher who has the most students participating in the event.
Veterans who attend will be recognized. "We have forms at each registration station to sign up any veterans who are present," said Belser. "(Last year) we honored the veterans that were there that day, and it was nice to acknowledge them."
Awards will also be given to the top overall male and female finishers. A certificate and a medal will be given to the top three male and female finishers in eight age groups: 14 and under, 15 to 18, 19 to 29, 30 to 39, 40 to 49, 50 to 59, 60 to 69, and 70 and over.
MTEF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides resources to support innovative ideas for projects that directly benefit MTSD students, enhance educational programs, and promote community involvement. The organization holds a yearly logo competition among all MTSD students in conjunction with the 5K race. The winning logo by Haley McCullough was used for this year's event. "We had more than 100 entries from our logo competition for this year," said Belser, who added that the competition is tied to the grants MTEF awards to teachers. A recent grant given to art teacher Matt Jones purchased styli that students used in digital artwork and design. "Tools from the grant were used to create the (contest) entries," Belser explained. "It's fun to see it come full circle."
The quarter-mile fun run will be open to children up to age 12. The run for the children will not be timed, and every child who participates will receive a medal. A nominal fee will be charged to take part in the fun run.
A food truck selling a variety of coffees and pastries will be on-site for those who wish to purchase breakfast items.
To encourage participation by district employees, teachers and staff members may take part at no cost. The MTHS cheerleaders will be present to encourage racers.
The MTEF 5K route will follow a path similar to the one the MTHS cross-country team uses, but it will be adjusted due to construction on campus. Belser noted there will be rolling hills, but no hills that are especially challenging, and that part of the route will be on grass.
Readers who wish to take part in the 5K may download a form from http://www.MTEF.net to mail to MTEF. For a nominal fee, runners may also register at http://www.pretzelcitysports.com. Registration will be discounted for MTSD students who take part. Individuals who have questions about the run may email administrator@mtef.net or call 717-735-1751.
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