The inaugural Liberty Way 5K Run and Family Fun Run couldn’t have asked for more perfect weather. Clear blue skies and a comfortable fall morning made for perfect conditions for running! Over 30 people participated in the Liberty Way 5K Run and Family Fun Run on Saturday, October 5. The inaugural race kicked off on the campus of Artman in Ambler, a senior community and service of Liberty Lutheran. Runners followed the 3.1 mile course through the surrounding neighborhoods.
“It was well organized and the course was easy to follow,” said race participant Kelli McIntyre “I’m not really a runner, but 5ks are manageable and it gives me a goal to work for. I’ve been preparing for the Liberty Way 5K since the end of July,” she added.
The race was also a family-friendly event. “This was a great opportunity for a local 5K that allowed strollers and babies, so I took advantage of it,” said Charlene Serang, who pushed her son in a stroller during the race.. “It is great being able to run with him in a race. I don’t have to worry about child care, and he loves being pushed in the stroller when I run!” she added.
“My son was riding his bike next to me the whole time, going up and down all those hills. It kept me motivated and made me want to catch all the people in front of me!” Kelli also said.
The runners were a varied group, with participants ranging in age from 13 through 67. First place went to 15-year old Nicholas Gottemoller, second place went to the fourth-oldest runner in the race, 60 year old Ross Schriftman, and third place went to the youngest runner in the event, 13 year old Gabrielle Saxon. However, as far as Liberty Lutheran is concerned, everyone is a winner for coming out and getting some exercise!
“Our first 5K could not have gone better,” said Susan Deluca, director of annual giving and special events at Liberty. “We wanted to reach out to a younger audience and do something fitness-driven, since keeping people active and healthy is part of the Liberty Way.”
“I loved the community aspect of the 5K and it was a fun race that was a good workout for a healthy lifestyle,” Charlene said of her favorite part of the event.
“It was great getting Liberty’s mission out into the community,” Susan said. “Many people do not know that we are more than Artman and senior living. There is also Liberty Lutheran Children and Family Services, our refugee services and the work we do with Lutheran Disaster Response. By holding the 5K we are able to educate the community on everything that Liberty does to help the community.”
“It was a fun and exciting day and I’m already looking forward to next year,” Susan added. “I hope everyone will join us again next year for the Second Annual Liberty Way 5K and Family Fun Run!”
CHECK OUT A GALLERY OF PHOTOS FROM THE EVENT
VIDEO OF THE LIBERTY WAY 5K
