Following the noise of the blaring airhorn, runners decked out in orange gear burst across the starting line and out through the Dickinson Stadium gates.
Sunday, May 4. at 8:30 a.m., the first annual Tiger 5K, hosted by the Newton North Boosters Club, took place at North. Runners, walkers, volunteers, spectators, and Season 29 “The Bachelor” winner Juliana Pasquarosa all were present, celebrating the community.
As the racers exited North property and found themselves on the familiar streets of Newton, they were guided by volunteers at every corner, helping racers make their way to the finish line with water and cheers.
Sophomore Caitlin Healy said, “There was so much support. Every corner we turned, there were people. There were lots of water stands and very nice support from the Tiger community.”
According to Sheila Butze, a member of the Boosters Club, the executive committee first developed the idea of the Tiger 5k last year. The group of volunteer parents met every month with the common goal, determined to make a lasting tradition for the community.
The Boosters Club’s dream was accomplished, according to Butze. “Almost 400 people signed up, and we’ve raised about 40,000 in support of athletics at North,” she said.
As the racers looped back around for the final stretch of the five-kilometer race through a balloon arch, they finished back under North’s scoreboard from which they started.
“The hills were a little bit tough on our legs because we are so tired from all that running, and it’s very humid out,” said sophomore Riley Salmon, a runner.
Exiting the track, runners were welcomed with snacks and water, vibrant music from a band called Redwire comprised of sophomores from both North and South and the special appearance of Pasquarosa.
Overall, the 5K was a strong and hopeful start to a lasting community event that will not only continue to grow larger every year, but will allow North to foster school spirit and support for athletics, according to athletic director Michael Jackson.
“All the hard work that the Boosters Club put into this has definitely paid off,” said Jackson.
