Ernie Chatman 5K Run
On Saturday morning the Red Mule Runners celebrated their 35th anniversary race at McKethan Lake Park in Brooksville. This race however was more than just a 5K run for the 148 participants; it was a race in honor of the recent passing of one of the club’s founding members, Ernie Chatman.
“With his work he did building the club throughout the years, we changed the race name to Ernie Chatman to help carry on his legacy,” said Chris Coffin, President of the Red Mule Runners.
McKethan Lake Park in Brooksville is a favorite among runners with the beautiful trees that line the lake .
The race included runners of all ages: toddlers in jogging strollers, seniors, and those who compete to beat their best time.
Eight year old Austin Kniarim was among the youngest of the runners. Austin enjoyed getting to run and the competition.
Kathleen Crowley who travelled from Pasco County to participate in the race said, “I started running nine years ago and this is my best year. I am having an unbelievable year. The people are a huge part of it…overall it is trying to help everyone else and they are some of the best people of my life. I love the freedom while you’re running, nothing else matters right then.”
“I love to run and the camaraderie of the runners and this is special because of it being the Ernie Chatman run,” Judy Hensley said. Hensley has been involved with the club for 33 years.
The club also gives back to the community by awarding scholarships for high school students who are active in cross country as well as track and field in Hernando County.
For more information about Red Mule Runners… visit their website at http://www.redmulerunners.com/
