FILE PHOTO

About 300 participants and spectators turned out for EdgeRace 2007, despite a downpour. Event organizers are expecting about the same turnout for the certified 5k run again this year. The annual race begins at 1 p.m. Sept. 28 at Edgemont Junior High.

EdgeRace full speed ahead, despite funding fluster

By Clare Jensen

The annual EdgeRace has become something of an iconic event for Edgewood residents over the past few years. What started as an idea for a healthy fundraising option for Edgemont Junior High has morphed into much more and is now an anticipated event for runners and community members.

But EdgeRace 2008 organizers faced their share of challenges, while coordinating the event for this back-to-school season.

In years past, getting private sponsorship for EdgeRace was a snap. This year, more than 250 requests for support were sent out to local businesses, getting the race eight monetary donors.

Several other businesses donated goods or services for the annual EdgeRace raffle, but totals still pale in comparison to 2006 and 2007.

“The people don’t have the funds to share right now,” said Tina Thomas, Edgemont Junior High mother and founder of EdgeRace.

Because of lack of funds raised beforehand, EdgeRace organizers have been able to just cover event printing costsand purchase a few gift prizes for competitors.

Money for the school can still be generated the day of the event through runner registration costs and $1 raffle ticket sales. However, Thomas views any profits as simply a bonus for the school.

“It is not about how much money we raise anymore… it’s about community…bringing our community together and meeting our neighbors,” Thomas said.

The third annual EdgeRace is a certified 5k course and is open to anyone who is up to the challenge. Registration costs are $15 ($20 when registering the day of the event) and include a T-shirt. Thirty-two first-place prizes for fastest times per age group and gender will be handed out. The race will begin at 1 p.m. on Sept. 28 at Edgemont Junior high and will commence at Edgemont Park. Day-of registration begins at noon, pre-registration can be done by contacting Edgemont Junior High at (253) 841-8727 or by e-mailing Thomas at tinasbookkeeping@hotmail.com.

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