The Lake Highlands Junior Women’s League held their 10th annual Run the Highlands Saturday, and this year’s event drew record crowds. Fitness instructors Mallory Cislo and Farrel Chapman warmed up pre-race participants with some high-energy calisthenics, while Lake Highlands High School cheerleaders and LHJWL members were stationed along the route to urge runners on.
You can see my photos from the day here.
“Seeing the community come together for such a fun day was so exciting,” said Jessica Baker, Logistics Co-Chair. “We were a little surprised when the clouds and cool winds blew in about 20 minutes before the 5K start, but luckily the forecasted sun came out soon after and it was a beautiful morning for an event.
“We are so grateful for all of the support of our sponsors and attendees,” added Jessica. “The proceeds from this year’s RTH event will go towards an indoor play area at the LH North Rec Center. What is so exciting is that there is potential for this to be completed very soon. We could not have done this without the support of our businesses and LH residents.”
Lindsey Halford, Logistics Co-Chair, said careful planning by her hard-working committees paid off. “Thank goodness we had no surprises.”
“I loved seeing our ‘small town’ within a big city come together,” said Meredith Yates, now finishing her third year as a member of the LHJWL. “Both familiar faces and new faces were running through the streets of LH and gathering at our rec center for family fun.
“I have loved being a part of a group that raises money directly for Lake Highlands – we give children at Skyview and Aikin uniforms, underwear, socks and shoes at Christmas time and provide school supplies in the fall. We’ve done really cool projects like the spray ground, banner poles, play structures at the town center and more. Now the indoor play center will provide another place for our community to gather. I know moms of young ones will love it.”
“People and companies continued to donate up until the very last minute possible,” said Emily Kretz, another LHJWL member. “I love the pride we take in our wonderful community. We want to say a great big thank you to the participants, sponsors and community.”
