At the starting line, 897 runners and walkers lined up in support of grieving children and teens at the Ele’s Race 5K Run/Walk on Saturday, July 28, 2018. The fundraiser, which benefits the Lansing branch of Ele’s Place, was held at the Jackson National Life Insurance Company headquarters.
Serious runners, casual wayfarers, families and children from across the Greater Lansing area rolled out of bed and laced up their tennis shoes to partake in a fun-filled 3.1-mile race. Along the race course was a segment called the “Memory Mile,” with heart-shaped signs displayed in memory of loved ones who have passed away.
The race is an annual event for Ele's Place Lansing and raised approximately $75,000 this year. The race was graciously presented by Jackson National, in addition to cash and in-kind sponsorship from local companies and media.
Race Results:
Grand prizes were awarded to:
- Overall Male and Female: Adugna Moritz and Alissa Folger
- Overall Male and Female Masters: Brian Jones and Chris Vincent
- Overall Male and Female Grand Masters: Scott Nemeth and Susan Blemaster
The top five male finishers were:
- Adugna Moritz
- Stephen Henry
- Espen Lehnst
- Danny Ezzo
- David McComb
The top five female finishers were:
- Alissa Folger
- Chris Vincent
- Katie Boyce
- L. Lehnst
- A. Schafer
In addition to Ele’s Race, 49 children turned out for the Playmakers Kids Mile Series. Children’s activities also included a 100-yard dash, crafts and games. Live music on the course was provided by a band from Jackson National called “The Boomers,” with finish line music provided by footwear and apparel retailer Playmakers.
