Annual Event Raised a Record $16,000 for Kline Veterans Fund
Racers of all skill levels braved the chilly air recently to take part in Skye Canyon’s annual day of fitness and family fun during Fit Fest 2022. It was an exciting day as more than 400 racers ranging from novices to trailblazers to those just seeking a stroll enjoyed a day of racing and fitness-focused fun including a Wellness Festival at Skye Canyon Park.
Through Skye Serves, a branch of the Olympia Companies Charitable Foundation, 100% of the proceeds from racer registration is being donated to Kline Veterans Fund. The well-attended event raised a whopping $16,000 for the charitable organization that provides financial assistance and other support to homeless, at-risk, and indigent veterans and their families in Southern Nevada.
The crisp day began with the presentation of the colors by UNLV Air Force ROTC Honor Guard followed by a rousing rendition of the national anthem as sung by Paul Shortino, the former lead singer of Quiet Riot. Representatives from Club Pilates in Skye Marketplace then warmed up the runners before the racers took off on the designated 8k, 5k and Fun Run routes.
Following the race, participants could grab some fruit and water and enjoy the Racer Recovery Tent and Cool Down hosted by YogaSix. Kids tried out their climbing skills on the rock wall and flew across the park on the zipline. This year, families also explored the Wellness Festival featuring more than 35 local vendors and refueled with food trucks including Graze and Fusion Street.
The day wrapped up with the awards ceremony. For the first time, new categories were added for racer recognition including 65 and over men’s and women’s and 16 and under. Congratulations to the top finishers and all who participated.
Top Finishers
1st Place Men’s 8K | Calvin Rivera |
2nd Place Men’s 8K | Kingston Lueck |
3rd Place Men’s 8K | Rene Avalos-Garcia |
1st Place Men’s 5K | Vincent Ottaviano |
2nd Place Men’s 5K | Boston Lueck |
3rd Place Men’s 5K | Brodie Freeman |
1st Place Women’s 8K | Samantha Popovich |
2nd Place Women’s 8K | Dana Berggren |
3rd Place Women’s 8K | Jaymie Freidank |
1st Place Women’s 5K | Leah Groppenbacher |
2nd Place Women’s 5K | Tara Mahoney |
3rd Place Women’s 5K | Caroline Friebel |