Off To A Tremendous Start

The inaugural Sebring Chamber of Commerce Run For Business 5k run/walk couldn't have gone any better.

The first-time event, which was held Saturday morning at scenic Highlands Hammock State Park, attracted more than 165 participants.

The theme for the 5k run/walk was to support the local economy by buying locally from businesses in the Heartland.

I'm ecstatic about the turnout," said Sebring Chamber of Commerce president Sarah Pallone. "We expected about fifty or sixty people, but the community got behind this event and made it a great success. "Our goal was to have a fitness-conscious event that focused on making people aware of our local businesses and what they have to offer.

"Look to buy locally before you go out of the area to purchase something."

The overall male winner was Sebring High junior cross country standout Connor Bauer with a time of 16 minutes, 28 seconds.

"I'm familiar with the course and I'm happy with my time," said Bauer. "I used this race as part of my training and to be able to run in the shade made it a great way to start the day.

"A lot of our cross country runners competed in the event and it's good experience for all of us."

The overall female winner was Sebring High senior Maxine Copley with a time of 22:17.

Male Master winner was Michael Quigley in 19:30 and the female Master winner was Jennifer Glassburn in 25:20.

"We can't thank the community enough for their support," said Pallone. "We're kicking off the be a smart shopper campaign and we included pledge cards in the race packet that all the participants received.

"We want to work with our members so they can provide what the people in our community want to purchase."

Mark Pinson can be reached at 863-386-5837 or mpinson@highlandstoday.com