Summer Family Fun
The Triple Crown 5k – #TeamSkylor 5k was held at the beautiful Heritage Preserve in Hilliard, Ohio. A warm Ohio day greeted participants this year giving a new, fresh feel to the event after a year of rain and clouds in 2018. Our returning participants remembered the 2018 race and commented on the change in weather and how great it was to be out with great weather this year. Today, participants enjoyed the dry, warm conditions and I’m sure all were thankful for the morning that was filled with a healthy activity, surrounded by family and friends doing something great in support of the Dots Tots Foundation.
The Dots Tots Foundation
Dot’s Tots began in the summer of 2012 and was started by Andy and Ashley Warnock. The name of the Foundation is in honor of Andy Warnock’s late grandmother, Dorotha Warnock. Dorotha was a lifelong educator and constant provider of guidance, support and love to all of her students and especially her grandchildren. This Foundation carries her legacy forward.
The Triple Crown reference’s Dot’s Tots’ mission – support for
1) Foster children and their families
2) Adolescents battling debilitating disease and/or illness
3) College bound teenagers struggling to afford the rising costs of higher education
The Kids Race
This morning’s fitness activity started with a short kid race for those 4 years of age and younger. These little tykes enjoyed the short dash into waiting parent’s arms under the finish line. Many parents, friends and family clicking away with their cameras to capture a moment in time; a memory that will last a lifetime.
Next up, the slightly older and faster kids. Unlike their younger counterparts, these kids meant business. Some made comments about how fast they could run and how they won a race at their school and were back to win another. Once off, they all ran as if their hair was on fire with no regard for the turn back. It was win or don’t try attitude. A few boys broke from the group and came in blazing fast-desperately trying to reach that finish line first. All enjoyed themselves no matter where they finished in relation to another.
The Main Event
Now for mom and dad’s turn. The 5k started at the shelter house with participants making their way along the beautiful trail system with spectators located along the course to cheer them on. Many ran or jogged while others walked with friends and family members simply enjoying the morning. This was a day for giving back and not necessarily personal achievements or goals though some certainly did. Their personal goal made even better by knowing they are in support of a great mission.
At the finish, those who had already completed their event cheered and encouraged others to “finish strong.” Many had smiles on their faces as they finished, knowing they were doing something good for themselves and for others. While the kids enjoyed a colorful lollipop to end their hard work the adults received a unique 5k medal to cap off their hard work. All in all, this was a great way to begin the day!
The 2020 event will be held again in August at the same venue. See race details here
