More than 760 runners and walkers lined up at the starting line in support of grieving children and teens, at the 14th Annual Ele’s Race 5K Run and Walk when the event kicked off on Saturday, July 15, 2017. The fundraiser, which aimed to benefit the Lansing location of Ele’s Place, was held at the Jackson National Life Insurance Company (Jackson) headquarters in Okemos, Mich.
Serious runners, casual wayfarers, families and children from across the greater Lansing area rolled out of bed and laced their tennis shoes to partake in a fun-filled 3.1-mile race. Along the segment of the race course called the “Memory Mile,” more than 50 heart-shaped signs were displayed in memory of loved ones who have passed away.
The race is an annual event for Ele's Place Lansing, raising approximately $70,000 this year. The 2017 event was graciously presented by Jackson, in addition to cash and in-kind sponsorships from local companies and media.
Race Results:
Grand prizes were awarded to:
Overall Male and Female: Noah Heckenlively and Chris Vincent
Overall Male and Female Masters: James Thompson and Amy Nemeth
Overall Male and Female Grand Masters: Michael Hammond and Karen Lutzke
The top five male finishers were:
Alex Townsend
Espen Lehnst
Mikhail Gorelik
Creaghan Diekema
Dylan Sanford
The top five female finishers were:
Liliana Lehnst
Cheehee Kim
Matéa iekema
Melanie DeMass
Lucy Meng
In addition to Ele’s Race, more than 100 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.
SOURCE: PRESS RELEASE
