Community Corner

VIDEO: Kentlands/Lakelands 5k Helps 'Change Lives, Save Lives'

Over its nearly two-decade history, the event has grown into Montgomery County's largest 5k race.

Event VIPs and city officials gathered last night at O’Donnell’s to celebrate the work of the volunteers who have helped the Kentlands/Lakelands 5k grow into Montgomery County’s largest 5k race.

Put on as a partnership between the Kentlands Community Foundation and the City of Gaithersburg, the race benefits the Dwelling Place, which provides homeless services for Montgomery County families, and the Dolores Swoyer Fund, which pays for underprivileged children to attend city summer camps. The race is also a qualifying event for the Maryland Senior Olympics.

"Not only is this an event that we all enjoy and that we all are very proud of, but it's also an event where we save lives—change lives, save lives," said Mayor Sidney Katz.

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Two-thirds of the 1,500 spots are already taken for the 19th running. Registration closes Tuesday, with roughly 500 spots available.

As the race’s nears the two-decade mark, here’s a look, by the numbers:

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4,000

Crowd expected to descend on Kentlands for the 5k and the always growing post-race events.

14 minutes, 16 seconds

Course record set last year by Abiyot Endale of Brooklyn, NY.

60

Volunteers and marshals needed to watch over the course during the race.

350

Children in last year’s Kids Fun Runs. This year will feature a third race.

$100,856

Money contributed to the Dolores Swoyer Fund since 2002.

The Kentlands/Lakelands 5K Run, Walk & Kids Fun Runs will be held on Saturday, September 3, 2011 at 8 a.m., starting near the Kentlands/Lakelands Market Square Plaza.

Register here.

Become a sponsor here.


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