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RAP River Run Raises Record Funds

On Saturday morning, a record number of runners turned out for the annual RAP River Run and made the 2011 fundraiser the most successful one to date.

More than 1,300 runners raced on the banks of the Pithlachascotee River Saturday morning for the 

It was bright and sunny and not too hot.  The route took the record number of entrants along 5 kilometers of road in a loop that started and ended in Sims Park.

Runners of all ages turned up to compete, but in the end there could be just one overall winner. Last year’s winner, 18-year-old Ryan Pulsifer crossed the finish line with the day’s fastest time of 16:51. The overall female winner was 15-year-old Kari Grippo, who completed the course in a time of 18:06. 

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James Simms, of Youth and Family Alternatives, was delighted with the turnout. More importantly, the event exceeded its target of raising $60,000.

“This year, we’ve raised in excess of $75,000,” Simms said.

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The money raised will go to the Runaway Alternatives Project (RAP) House in New Port Richey, a facility that helps homeless or runaway children between the ages of 10 and 17. The center covers all of Pasco County and provides a safe environment and counseling.

 A number of runners completing the run while pushing young children in strollers. One particularly impressive entrant was Lisa Williams, who finished the course in a very quick time, despite running the race with three children in a stroller.

A few dogs accompanied their owners around the course. There was even a three-legged runner this year. Tory Dewaters entered this year’s race with her two rescue dogs, Trip and Sarge. Trip was found by police officers with a missing front leg and taken to an animal shelter where Dewaters saw him and decided to adopt him.

A one-mile fun run also took place before the main event. One entrant has become a regular at the event. Cathy Bergwall first entered the first fun run four years ago when she decided she needed to lose weight. Since then she has lost a total of 227 pounds.

“I go for five mile bike ride every morning, and I have a bowl of oatmeal,” explained Bergwall. “Now I can keep up with my grandchildren.”

For more information on the RAP House or Youth and Family Alternatives visit:www.yfainc.org/

A full list of this year's race results can be found at:http://coolrunning.com/results/11/fl/Jun11_YOUTHA_set1.shtml

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