Proceeds benefit victims and survivors of domestic violence, child abuse and stalking in Harford County.
A total of 140 runners and walkers enjoyed this year’s brand-new course at the fourth annual Holly’s Hope 5K and 1 Mile Walk on October 16 to raise funds for and awareness of local resources for victims and survivors of domestic violence. These resources are provided free of charge by SARC, the Harford County nonprofit dedicated to creating a society free from abuse and fear.
The event began with an important message from its namesake, Holly (whose last name is being withheld for safety reasons), who shared her journey. After experiencing years of abuse, she is now a strong, thriving example of courage and tenacity for those currently suffering and in need of help. Present amongst attendees to show support was Richard C. Slutzky, president of the Harford County Council.
Participants started and ended the race at the Harford County Equestrian Center in Bel Air and traveled on a scenic course along the MA and PA Heritage Trail. The first person to finish the 1-mile walk was Luke Meerholz – a 6-year-old first grader!
In an interesting twist, the first-place male finisher of the 5K run, Michael Knickerbocker, age 31, was followed by second-place winner Corey Daley, age 13 (a reverse of the first-place winner’s age) and third -place winner, Michael Feiler, age 62 (exactly double the age of the first-place winner!). The top three female finishers were Kay Sheldon Dyches, Annie Wernig and Nancy Hill.
The top three male and female finishers received prizes and all male and female age group winners received medals for their accomplishments. The event was broadcast live by WAMD radio and concluded with a post-race party featuring refreshments supplied by Walmart and Bagel Works.
On behalf of SARC and all those it helps, SARC CEO Luisa Caizzo expressed her gratitude for the sponsors of this year’s event including The Goddard School of Forest Hill, Hazel and Larry Hopkins, Harford County Government, ShopRite, Vagabond Sandwich Company, People’s Bank, Dr. David Mergerian, DDS; and In-Kind Sponsors WAMD and Charm City Run Bel Air. Annual sponsors include Society of Italian American Businessman, Harford Mutual Insurance Company, Decisive Data Systems, Lynch Construction, Harford’s Heart, Fallston Group, Jones Junction, Saiontz & Kirk, Saxon’s Diamond Centers, APGFCU, Custom Mechanical Services, Horne Concrete, Innovative Insurance Solutions, Oak Contracting, WSMT, Chesapeake Employer’s Insurance, McComas Funeral Homes, Elegant Restoration, Greene’s Executive Cleaning and Harford Bank.
For additional information about SARC, including upcoming holiday projects and sponsorship opportunities, visit www.sarc-maryland.org.
About SARC (https://www.sarc-maryland.org/)
Since 1978, SARC (Sexual Assault/Spouse Abuse Resource Center) has provided hope and resources to victims of domestic violence, sexual violence, child abuse, and stalking. Services include a 24-Hour-Helpline, counseling, legal representation, a confidential safe house and community outreach and education.
