Beautiful shade. Flat, paved walkway. Friends and family. BBQ, beer and fresh fruit. These are just a few of the wonderful things individuals of all ages and abilities may enjoy as they participate in the ninth annual Speedy PD Race for Parkinson’s Disease presented by UMB at 8 a.m. Saturday, August 26, at Tuttle Creek State Park!   

The purpose of the event is multifaceted: to raise awareness and understanding of Parkinson’s Disease (PD); to raise funds to support the Meadowlark Parkinson’s Program in it’s ten-year tradition of providing free exercise classes, educational opportunities, community outreach and scholarship to those in the Flint Hills affected by PD; to honor those affected by PD; to exercise (run &/or walk a 5k, 10k or ½ Mile); and to enjoy the beautiful Tuttle Creek Lake and have fun with new and established friends!

In 2016, the event hosted more than 700 registered runners/walkers and this year organizers Doug Sellers, Body First Wellness Director, and Michelle Haub, Parkinson’s Program Leader, are hopeful for another great turnout! The Team Competition has seen the greatest amount of growth over the recent years. Last year, Meadowlark’s Team of residents and staff came in a close second place to Coyote Crazy who had 72 people! Presently there are already eleven teams signing up members to compete for coveted prizes and titles including, Largest Team, Most Donations Raised, Most Inspirational and Fastest Team. Team prizes will be awarded to winners in two categories—Corporate Team and Social Team. 

The 2017 event will feature newly certified (USATF) 5k (3.1 miles) and 10k (6.2 miles) courses. These new routes will keep all of our runners inside the park to increase their safety. It also keeps the courses flat, which should encourage racers to set a personal record (PR).

Race festivities will begin Friday, Aug. 25, with a Pasta Party from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the Holiday Inn Campus. Cost is $12 for adults and $6 for children 10 and under.  If you would like to attend the race, please RSVP to Michelle at 323-3899 by Aug. 21.

Michelle is thrilled to announce that the speaker for the evening of the Pasta Party is a Regional Leader for the Michael J. Fox Foundation’s Community Engagement Team. Lauren Paglisotti will speak at 6:30 p.m. and plans to present the latest research information in the world of treating PD and share how the Michael J. Fox Foundation leads the way in these efforts.    

On Saturday, Aug. 26, the 5k and 10k races begin at 8 a.m., and the Half-Mile Family Fun Run/Walk starts at 9:15 a.m. Each registered participant receives a Speedy PD t-shirt (guaranteed until 8/11/17), a finisher’s medal and wonderful post-race food, drink and massages provided by our generous sponsors. 

To register for the race, please visit www.runspeedypd.org or stop by the Hospitality Desk to pick up a paper registration form. You may turn in your registration and payment to the lock box at the Hospitality Desk, UMB on Humboldt or at Body First Wellness Center. 

The planning committee is also searching for volunteers to ensure our participants are safe while having fun. If you are interested in volunteering at the race, please email rd@bodyfirst.com or call Jeanette Wagner at (783) 323-3870. Even if you are running, you could volunteer to help before or after your event.

The Speedy PD Race for Parkinson’s Disease benefits the Meadowlark Parkinson’s Program. To learn more about the program, please contact Michelle Haub at 323-3899. See you at the race!