Around 60 area residents ran, walked and biked in support of mental health Saturday morning, participating in a fun run to benefit Zero Reasons Why Allen County. Organized by Deputy Patrick Cash of the Allen County Sheriff’s Office, the event was so successful, there’s already talk of doing it again next year. (Circle May 22 on your calendar.)
“It was a great turnout,” said Travis Buck, who coordinates the Zero Reasons Why chapters in Iola, Humboldt and Marmaton Valley High Schools. “The collaboration with the Sheriff’s Office really helped bring people out. And I think people are happy to support a good cause.”
Cash said he spent the last couple of weeks planning — and then replanning — the 5K and 10K race routes. “I wanted to make sure safety and accessibility were our first priorities,” Cash said. “I’m happy the 10K runners were able to get out and enjoy a nice route by the state park and on the trails.”
Kurt Jackson of Yates Center was the first 5K finisher, crossing the line just after 25 minutes. That’s if you don’t count youngster Russell Unruh, who left everyone in the dust as zoomed through the course on his bike. Over a dozen participants completed the 10K course. 
Finishers were greeted with applause, along with water, bananas, and an honorary medal donated by the Sheriff’s Office.
Those interested in supporting mental health initiatives have another chance on Friday, June 26 during a “Smash the Stigma” event. Participants can take turns destroying an old vehicle, donated by Humboldt Speedway. Car and stigma smashing begins at 5 p.m., before the races at 8 o’clock.
