Walk, run, trot raises funds for those in need

By RICHARD JENKINS

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Hurley - Despite wet weather, the Iron County Health Department lobby was filled with participants registering for the second annual Trot-4-Food Thursday.

The event featured both a four-mile and 1.5-mile walk, run or "trot" through Hurley.

Money raised from entry fees will enable the Iron County Food Pantry to help provide Thanksgiving dinners for area families in need, said Melissa DeCarlo, one of the race organizers.

DeCarlo explained the event was somewhat of a continuation of a tradition her parents had of providing a Christmas dinner to those in need.

"Just kind of the same thought, my mom's heart was for the community - that nobody would go without," she said.

DeCarlo said she was part of a group of six friends who decided to combine their passion for running with the cause of providing holiday meals.

Since the run takes place on Thanksgiving, DeCarlo said each year the group donates the overages from the previous year's race. Earlier this week, organizers presented a check for $300 to the food pantry. The overages from this year's run will be presented next year.

This year's event included 57 runners, more than last year's total, despite the rain and DeCarlo said the number of volunteers also increased over the previous year.

Above all, in addition to it being a good cause, DeCarlo said the event was a fun way to get people out and active.

She said, "It's not timed, it's for fun."