The 42nd annual Ocala Reindeer Run 5K and Rudolph Dash Kids Fun Run, which took place December 14th, included more than 300 participants, dozens of volunteers and thousands of spectators. The events, held each year before the start of the Ocala Christmas Parade, took place on Silver Springs Boulevard, which was closed to traffic for several hours.
According to race director Darrin DeTorres, the 5K was started by the Ocala Runners Club.
“People from our runner’s club were the founders of the Big Hammock Race Series and work to promote youth running in the community,” DeTorres says, adding that the Reindeer Run is the oldest 5K in the area and is believed to be one of the oldest in the state.
The starting point for the 5K and the kids run was CenterState Bank, located at 1632 E. Silver Springs Boulevard, Ocala.
“For the past few years, CenterState Bank has been at the helm of the Reindeer Run,” DeTorres offers. “They have helped raise more than $81,000 for youth in the community. This year, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Marion County will receive more than $11,000.”
DeTorres says there are multiple benefits from the two races.
“A 5K promotes a healthy lifestyle, and a community 5K encourages people to get out and exercise,” he notes. “The Rudolph Dash is always a crowd favorite, where kids ages 2-10 run a 300-meter or 400-meter race. This helps show them the fun they can have with running and the rewards that can come from pursuing an active and healthy lifestyle.”
For race results, visit http://bit.ly/2QgVNbt
To learn more about the organizations, visit http://bgcofmarion.com/ and www.OcalaRunnersClub.com
