Runners and walkers were out at the Hamburg Area High School football stadium early Sunday morning, July 20, for the sixth annual Run for Taylor in memory of Taylor Nicole Seitzinger.
Family, friends, those that knew her and even those that only know her through her memory came out to not only honor the late student, but to also help raise money for the Taylor N. Seitzinger Scholarship Fund.
‘On behalf of the family and I, thanks for coming. It’s a day to remember Taylor,’ said Troy Seitzinger, Taylor’s father. ‘It’s a good day, raising money for a great cause.’
As runners took their places at the starting line, Troy thanked the participants and explained the 5K course. He also joked about friendly accusations of him cheating last year that included photographic evidence of him starting a half step before everyone else. To prevent a repeat, Troy was the once to kick off the race with the countdown.
A moment of silence was held before the green light was given for the runners to start following behind Taylor’s brother on his motorcycle.
The sides of the course were lined with family and friends cheering on all of the runners even as they took the final stretch which was a lap around the track in the stadium. Once the older runners had their fun, a Kids Fun Run was held with a lap around the track. All of the children in the Kids Fun Run received medals donated by Peters Brothers Meat Market Inc.
Once the results were in, it was time for the awards portion of the day. The top male and female runners were recognized as well as the top three males and females in the specific age groups.
T-shirts, refreshments, music and door prizes were also at the event.
Taylor was a standout athlete who played soccer, basketball and cross-country as well as a straight-A student, Homecoming Queen and student council vice-president. Her plan after graduating from Hamburg Area High School was to study to become a physician’s assistant and play soccer at DeSales University. Taylor passed away on March 19, 2009. Even in her passing, she helped three individuals as an organ donor.
Shortly after she passed, the Taylor N. Seitzinger Hamburg Area High School Scholarship Fund was established. The goal of the fund is to provide scholarships to graduating Hamburg Area High School students who are furthering their education after high school by pursuing a four-year degree with a preference to those attending DeSales University and/or will be playing women’s soccer in college. The recipients must also have participated in school and community activities as well as have demonstrated leadership.
The weather on Sunday was perfect for running and made for an enjoyable event that honored someone special to many in the community and helped support a great cause.
