The Optimist Club of Kutztown is set to host the 24th annual Fool’s Run Scholarship Races on March 29, at the Kutztown Fairgrounds. The event will include the Solo Labs 10-mile race, the Hometown Utilicom 5k race, the DEP Employees 2-mile walk and a 1/2 mile kids fun run.
‘[The races] are some of the first ones in the area,’ said race chairman and Optimist Club secretary, Don Sechler. ‘People are ready to be outside again. We have good courses and we treat everyone fairly. Everyone likes to have a good time.’
According to Kutztown Optimist Club President Ben Haas, of US Wealth Management, Kutztown, the 2-mile walk was added to increase appeal for a variety of participants.
‘We know there are those who would like to come and participate to support the event and the scholarships, but who don’t have interest in running the course,’ said Haas. ‘We know that everyone is a little stir crazy from the winter we have had. So we anticipate the 2-mile walk being a great way to bring out families with younger kids and those who enjoy the exercise and activity.’
Proceeds from the event will go towards the Donald Peters Memorial Scholarship Fund, which provides Kutztown University college scholarships for students of the Kutztown, Fleetwood and Brandywine Area School Districts. The fund was created to honor the memory of past club member, Donald Peters.
‘The Optimist Club has a great history of men who committed much of their time and energy to the youth of our communities,’ said Haas. ‘Donald was a great example of that. We take pride in the ability to honor these members and their families by passing on their legacy in the scholarships we give.’
‘Our main focus is the kids,’ said Sechler. ‘The best thing for us is to help get the kids into college.’
Last year, the races were responsible for raising $6,500 in scholarships. The Optimist Club raises additional funds during the year through events such as Easter egg hunts and youth sports programs.
‘Everything the Optimist Club does centers on our dedication to the youth of our community,’ said Haas.
The event will begin with the 10-mile race at 9 a.m. Registration fees charged.
Additional information regarding registration, course map and description, race guidelines, prizes, directions, and sponsorship information can be found by going to the race website at http://www.kutztownfoolsrun.com.
To learn more about Optimist International, call 314-371-6000 or visit www.optimist.org.
