Sunshine 5K hosts record number of runners

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Sunshine 5K welcomes 640 record setting runners to Greenville. (Gaylen Blosser photo)

GREENVILLE—The Darke County Foundation hosted the Sunshine 5K, which has been held in Greenville for 13 years. A record-setting 640 participants registered.

“The purpose of the Darke County Foundation is to enrich the lives of residents in our community, and the Sunshine 5K does just that. Hundreds of people are out enjoying a walk or run through our beautiful Greenville City Park, bettering their lives through physical fitness and friendly company,” said Director of the Darke County Foundation Christy Prakel. “At the same time, their registration money is assisting organizations that make life better for Darke County residents. The services these groups provide make a meaningful difference for so many people.”

Race participants could compete in the 5K, One-Mile Run, or Kids Fun Run. The scenic 5K course winds through Greenville City Park and over the iconic swinging bridge.

Sunshine 5K runners make their way across the Greenville City Park swinging bridge. (Gaylen Blosser photo)

“This event is a shining example of what makes our community strong,” Prakel stated. “You can feel the upbeat and invigorating energy that fills the air. I love seeing the smiling faces and hearing the lively chatter before and after the race. As participants cross the finish line, they are excited to enjoy the homemade cookies and drinks, prizes, music, and camaraderie. The Sunshine 5K has become a Darke County tradition.”

Kids Fun Race runners leave the starting line at Sunshine 5K race. (Gaylen Blosser photo)

The 2024 Sunshine 5K benefitted organizations such as the Cancer Association of Darke County, DeColores Montessori School, Edison College Foundation, Final Bow Center for Children’s Performing Arts, LifeWise Academy Greenville, LifeWise Academy Versailles, and Y.O.L.O. of Darke County.

Saturday’s Sunshine 5K 640 participants set out on fundraising event through Greenville City Park. (Gaylen Blosser photo)

“Volunteer trustees of the Darke County Foundation put in many hours to organize this event,” noted Prakel. “The Sunshine 5K raises about $20,000 for local organizations, thanks to generous sponsors including Reid Health, Wayne HealthCare, and Family Health.”

Sunshine 5K volunteers (L-R) Kent Zechar, Jon Hein, and Eileen Litchfield. (Gaylen Blosser photo)
Sunshine 5K runnners cross the Greenville City Park swinging bridge. (Gaylen Blosser photo)