The 4th Annual Super Hero Run for KidsAbility drew hundreds of costumed runners out Sunday morning to support special needs children and youth.
The event raised over $70,000 and saw over 500 people take part.
“Every child needs a super hero,” said Tanja Nandor, events coordinator for the KidsAbility Foundation. “This is our 4th year and the community support has been tremendous. We had 700 people last year and we hope to increase that number this year.”
The Super Hero Run for KidsAbility raises money for services and programs that help children and youth from Guelph, Cambridge, Fergus, Kitchener and Waterloo with a wide range of complex special needs.
“We raised $64,000 last year and a total of $230,000 over the last three years,” said Nandor. “We are projecting to surpass last year’s total.”
Sections of London, Exhibition, Kathleen and Division Streets surrounding Exhibition Park were closed for two hours to allow runners and walkers to compete in the 5K and 1K races. There was food, face painting and games for the kids and plenty of chances to meet and be photographed with super heroes. There was even a visit from Brampton Batman and the Batmobile.
Honorary chair, Mayor Cam Guthrie aka Nacho Libre and MP Lloyd Longfield presented awards for best costume, biggest fund raisers and the winners of the races. The winners were:
5K Men’s – 1st George Large, 2nd Sandy Clipsham, 3rd David Duhan
5K Women’s – 1st Jennifer Schneider, 2nd Kelly Family, 3rd Micaela Zettel
5K Wheelchair – Mike Greer
1K – 1st Daniel Ironmonger, 2nd Emma Belluzzi, 3rd Brandon Landsborough
Top Fundraising Teams – 1st Team Brown, 2nd Action Jackson, 3rd Team Blacksmith
Top Fundraiser – Sydney Brown
“It is all the families, volunteers and sponsors that make this possible,” said Nandor.
