The 6th Annual Kent’s Run Was a Massive Success!

Boone Grove Middle School was filled with runners of all paces and ages. It was the 6th annual Kent’s Run that brought them all together that Saturday morning. Kent’s Run was the brainchild of Reggie Flesvig, assistant principal of Bremen Middle School in Bremen, IN. Kent Ribordy was a student at Boone Grove High School. He ran track and cross country and was loved by all that knew him. This included Flesvig. Ribordy’s time with us was unfortunately short as he was was diagnosed with leukemia and passed away his freshman year. But his life is remembered and celebrated each year during Kent’s Run.

Before the race began, runners waited anxiously outside of Boone Grove Middle School. They were treated to "Who You'd Be Today" by Kenny Chesney (Ribordy’s favorite song). Then a moving convocation was given by a local pastor and the National Anthem was performed.

At 8am the race began, and runners crossed the starting line and followed a most interesting pace car –it was actually a giant John Deere tractor (also a favorite of Ribordy’s). There were around 1100 people participating so masses of people traversed the streets of Boone Grove and made their way back to the school to triumphantly cross the finish line.

Afterward, a hearty pancake breakfast was served in the cafeteria and awards were given to the winners of different age groups. The overall race winners were Mitch Hubner and Jordan Chester.

Flesvig was quite pleased with the turnout and looked on with pride along with Ribordy’s parents who also played a big part in the creation of Kent’s Run.

“We had a great turnout today,” Flesvig said. “I’m very happy with the day. People really had a good time. Our goal was to raise $40,000, and I think we passed out goal. I believe we’ve raised around $190,000 in all six years.”

A new addition to the race this year was the inclusion of the Calumet Striders. Kent’s Run was made a gold cup race for them. The Heartland Bloodmobile was also there along with Girl’s on the Run. It was an excellent day for all who attended, whether runner, walking, volunteering, or spectating. The thought was shared by many that we can’t wait until next year for the 7th annual Kent’s Run!

{valpo}Click here to see the entire photo gallery of the race!{/valpo}{portage}Click here to see the entire photo gallery of the race!{/portage}

Sponsors for Kent’s Run: Walgreens, Accelerated Rehabilitation Centers, CSiNET, Applegarth Dermatology, Crop for Kent, Generations Hair Salon, Graeber Family Farms, Graves Lumber Company, Ophthalmic Plastic Surgery, Pioneer, Reeder’s Auto Service Center, Ribordy Family Farms, The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's Team in Training, Calumet Region Striders, and Vision Event Management.