The second annual Run for Ike 5k is tomorrow, Saturday, May 12. Alan and I will again be volunteering our time, he as the announcer, me as, well, as whatever they want me to do. Last year I did the timing, but the event has grown beyond what an individual can do, and the organizers wisely decided to hire a real timing company.
The inaugural event, held in May last year, was planned and organized in less than a month, after police K-9 Ike was killed in the line of duty. The goal was to raise $6,000 to purchase and train another K-9 officer for the Palm Springs Police Force. In the end, over $15,000 dollars was raised! K-9 officer Kane is now on duty with his handler, Officer Calantuano. He’s already made his first arrest!
Photo credit: Falco K-9 Academy
This year, with a much longer planning window, organizer Molly Thorpe hopes for an even larger turnout for the race. The proceeds will continue to assist the K-9 unit of the Palm Springs Police Force, plus a portion of the funds will be donated to the Guide Dogs of the Desert, a wonderful organization that provides companion guide dogs to the blind and sight impaired.
Run for Ike 2011
I hope that if you are in the desert area, you will think about coming out and supporting this event. Race day registration is available and the race itself starts at 8:00. And if you’re not close by, just take a few moments to think about our K-9 (and canine) protectors and how they are happy and proud to put their lives on the line for us.
2011 Race Report: Run for Ike
Run for Ike Banquet: A New Hero
omg, this is so the kind of races I love to contribute to!!! I love to do fun 5ks but I want my money to go toward something I believe in! I even thought about trying to organize one for my favorite animal rescue but I have no idea where to even start. (do you? if so, can you email me at monlink@yahoo.com)
I love all animals. but after watching a demonstration a couple years back on police dogs at a local festival, I was hooked. These dogs are so amazing, not only in what they do, but that they can tell the difference between work, and play. They have such a vital role in our community, I’m so happy you got to be part of such a wonderful event!!
fizzgig recently posted..Getting Back Together With an Ex…
I will send you a few ideas for planning your own event. My husband is really good at it, so I’ll ask him too. I’ll put some thoughts together and email you.
Police dogs really are amazing. It’s like they take all the best qualities of a dog, bravery, loyalty, love, then train them to be cops too.
Debbie recently posted..The 2nd Annual Run for Ike 5K