It’s year 14 of REACH’s Spooky Sprint.
Races, games and obstacle courses for families to enjoy are planned for this year’s event, which is set for Saturday in Hutchinson.
There will be a 5-kilometer family fun run and walk, and for the kids who have a bit too much energy there will be a half mile dash. Costumes are encouraged, but not required.
Proceeds from the sprint go back into the REACH program and REACH scholarships. The program covers Hutchinson High School and Middle School and was formed to offer students academic, social and emotional support.
“Higher education is expensive, and not all of our families have those kinds of resources, and college isn’t made for everybody,” said REACH teacher and coordinator Rhoda Hubbard. “So maybe they want to go get a two-year degree in web design or get their welding certificate or go to cosmetology school, something that’s going to motivate them, that can just help them cross that finish line and graduate.”
The sprint started in 2009 after Jason and Leah Werowinski approached REACH about starting a 5K that could benefit the community. While everything wasn’t ready to go right away, the Werowinskis and REACH Director Chad Harlander sat down and figured out how it could work.
“We wanted to, you know, incorporate our kids in the process as much as possible since it’s benefiting REACH students,” Hubbard said. “How can REACH students then give back? I tell our kids they’re hosting a party. And when you host a party, you don’t go through the line first.”
REACH students put together as much of the event as they can. They make posters to encourage the runners, put together games for kids and even work with the National Guard to have an obstacle course.
“I’m most excited to see everyone in costume,” said Senior Jadiin Jorgensen as he worked on a poster.
His senior classmates had similar positive remarks.
“I think it’s a fun way to get out of your comfort zone,” Owen Reilein said.
The diversity of the event was the highlight for Jayden Moore.
“You get to see so many different people,” Moore said.
“It’s just meant to be a fun community (event) that brings people together for a great cause,” Hubbard said.
