FLORENCE – About 250 runners and walkers turned out for the McLeod Sports Medicine Challenge 5K and 10K Run/Walk and One Mile Pet Walk at Briggs Elementary School Saturday morning.
Participants, both two and four legged, set off on courses that encompassed the neighborhoods surrounding Briggs Elementary – at the intersection of Congaree and Wisteria Drives.
“The proceeds from the run and from our sponsors are to benefit the Jeffrey Kier Athletic Excellence Scholarship. We provide four $1,000 scholarships to athletes who are going on to careers in the healthcare field,” Paul John, McLeod Health sports medicine director, said.
“It’s also a great way to get people outside, exercising and moving and get people in shape and have a good time,” John said.
Pre-registered individuals varied in age from 6-81, race co-director Adam Ploeg said.
One runner Saturday topped the pre-registered oldest.
Mullins dentist Dr. Franklin Mason, 85, a veteran runner, ran in the event.
“I’ve been running for 28 years. Next week will be my 700th race. I’ve run 120 marathons,” Mason said.
He added he holds several records for his age group – small through it is.
“You might call me an obsessive runner,” Mason said.
Though still running, Mason said he has slowed down a bit with age.
“I’m having to walk a lot because I have a bad knee and a weak heart. Just the fact that I can finish it I’ll call that a win. I may be the last one, but I’m going to finish,” Mason said.
Others were on hand more for fun than competition.
“I just wanted to show my baby boy off,” Debra Barino said of her brindle boxer Wyston.
“He’s just nine months old and he’s excited and ready,” Barino said of Wyston, who spends his days at doggie day care.
After the event participants could enjoy activities at the school, including an inflatable bounce ride, balloons, a clown and popcorn.
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