The Speedy PD 5K/10K Race for Parkinson’s Disease was held at Tuttle Creek State Park in Manhattan, Kan., on Saturday, Aug. 24, 2013. The 5K Run/10K Run/Walk and Half-Mile Family Fun Run/Walk was presented by UMB Bank and proceeds benefit the Meadowlark Hills Parkinson Fund.

The event raised over $31,000 in sponsorships (cash and cash-value donations), race registrations and donations for the Meadowlark Hills Parkinson’s Fund. The fund allows the leaders of the Parkinson’s Program of Manhattan at Meadowlark Hills to provide services for the community to improve the quality of life for all those affected by Parkinson’s disease, including: patients, caregivers, therapists and nurses. With this fund, they are able to continue and expand opportunities for education and outreach.

UMB Bank was the presenting sponsor of the race for the third consecutive year. "If our team here at UMB can help raise awareness and funds through The Speedy PD, then we have done a great thing for our community and for all of those affected by Parkinson's disease," said David Urban, president at UMB Bank. "This event in particular is near to our hearts here at UMB because we have employees who are personally impacted by this devastating disease."

There were nearly 500 race registrations for the 5K and 10K races and approximately 85 volunteers that contributed to the success of the event.

Sarah Duggan, Community Relations Director at Meadowlark Hills was pleased with the great support from the community, families and those affected by Parkinson’s disease. “Michelle Haub, the Parkinson’s Program Leader, did an incredible job leading the charge once again to plan a fun, successful event to promote and further the great things that the Parkinson’s Program is doing for our community.”

The newest feature of the race is the certification of the 5K and 10K courses.

This year’s platinum sponsors include the following: Cox Bros. BBQ, Budweiser and Flint Hills Beverage Company, Hot Country B104.7, Body First, Community First National Bank, Steel and Pipe Supply funded by the Jack Goldstein Charitable Trust and Meadowlark Hills.