Courtesy Photo | Connie Sprynczynatyk presents Reece Vega with a plaque recognizing his first-place...... read more read more
MINOT, N.D. - More than 100 runners and walkers met at Oak Park in Minot June 26 to participate in a 5K race to raise money for events for North Dakota Soldiers serving in Kosovo, as well as to show their support for the troops.
The Minot run took place the same day as a 5K in Kosovo, and many were comparing their times to that of their family member overseas. Many Minot participants wore their loved one’s picture pinned to their clothing during the run.
“The main reason we are doing this is to sponsor the run in Kosovo,” said 1st Sgt. Jeff Barta, one of the organizers of the group as well as a participant, who has a daughter serving in Kosovo.
The Family Readiness Group was also hoping to raise money for Kosovo Force 12’s homecoming.
The KFOR12 theme carried throughout the event, with the entrance fee and T-shirt price at $12 and a 12-pound pack weight requirement for those participating in uniform.
The first finisher was Reece Vega with a time of 18 minutes, 11 seconds. Prizes were given based on six age brackets with trophies for males and females as well as separate trophies for the pack run.
“It’s going fantastic,” Barta said. “The whole town of Minot jumped on this. We’ve had so many volunteers.”
Barta wanted thank the North Dakota Patriot Guard for supporting the event, as well. Mark Nelson, Patriot Guard ride captain, started the race.
Connie Sprynczynatyk, wife of Maj. Gen. David Sprynczynatyk, North Dakota adjutant general, participated in the race and presented the awards.
“It was very well organized,” Sprynczynatyk said. “I have participated in many road races over the years and this was just excellent. I’m really proud of the family group for organizing this, and I’d also like to thank the local businesses who supported us. This is a way for the local businesses to live their support for the military.”
About 150 North Dakota Soldiers who served in Kosovo returned home in May, and the remaining 500 are expected home later this summer. They are part of a 10,000 strong NATO peacekeeping force there.
| Date Taken: | 06.26.2010 |
| Date Posted: | 06.28.2010 14:32 |
| Story ID: | 52099 |
| Location: | MINOT, ND, US |
| Web Views: | 176 |
| Downloads: | 127 |
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