Run Wild for Autism 2016

Jordan Shorter, Staff Writer

On a brisk, early Sunday morning, runners gathered together, for a great cause. The annual Pathfinders for Autism Run took place on Sunday, September 25th, at the Baltimore Zoo, in Baltimore, Maryland. Over 1,400 runners and walkers attended this three-mile run, which included people ranging in age from little kids to adults. This was a great, family-friendly environment to come and run for a great cause.

The annual autism run is used to support families who are affected by autism and to provide them with therapy for the children and the financial resources that the family needs to help them. This popular event was a hit this year, with many volunteers, supporters, and runners. Age didn’t matter, as long as the runners, walkers, and volunteers were willing to run their hardest and have fun.

When the runners and walkers first arrived, they checked in, received a number, got a shirt, and waited at the starting line. Runner Alexis Adams said that the course “was beautiful and a lot of it was set on the waterfront”, She added that it, “was most challenging in the beginning with some of the hills. There were a lot of families and supporters there.” Running this race was very empowering for the runners and gave them a sense of accomplishment once they reached the finish line.                                                                                        

At the end of the race, the runners had refreshments, souvenirs, and fun games to play. Water bottles, shirts, and other items were distributed and there was even ice-cream and snacks, which was a real hit among all the children who were in attendance.

Overall, this was an amazing event, with a great turnout this year. Many people in the community came out to support this amazing cause.