Town of Pike Road to Host Race For Hope July 19

The third annual Race For Hope will take place Saturday, July 19 in the Town of Pike Road. The 2014 event will offer racers the opportunity to participate in a certified half marathon, 5K or a one-mile super hero themed fun run. This event is open to all ages and both runners and walkers are encouraged to participate. Residents from around the River Region are invited to show their support for runners by joining us along the race route or for festivities near the start/finish line. The event will take place at Founders Station (Pike Road original Town Hall), located at 4902 Pike Road. Activities will include live music and other family-friendly fun.

The Race for Hope benefits Children’s Hope, a ministry of First Baptist Church of Montgomery. Children’s Hope addresses the needs of orphans through three components: foster care, adoption and orphan support. Specifically, the organization’s Haiti Initiative addresses the needs of orphans in Jacmal, Haiti. Race for Hope raises funds to support Cole’s House, a home for orphans in that community.

Race coordinator Rebecca Ellis said the event’s purpose and planners are what set it apart from other races. “It was developed originally by an incredible small group of teenagers that wanted to make an impact on their community by serving others and honoring God’s call to turn something tragic into a message of hope and grace.” The teenagers originally planned the race in memory of Ellis’ son, Cole, as a way to honor the young man who was an active member of the youth group at First Baptist.

“We are thrilled to keep up the tradition of hosting the Race for Hope in the Town of Pike Road,” said Mayor Gordon Stone. “This event has an enormous impact, both on the young people of Jacmal, Haiti, and on the young people who work so hard on the planning. It is an honor for the Town of Pike Road to partner with them to create such a positive outcome.”

Race registration can be completed online through July 15 at www.childrens-hope.com.