Kiwanis Club of LaPlata Assists LaPlata High School Key Club with the First Annual Pete Mahon Memorial Run/Walk

by Judi Gorney

On April 9, 2011 members of the Kiwanis Club of LaPlata helped the LaPlata High School Key Club members with the first Pete Mahon Memorial Trail Run/Walk 5k. Pete Mahon taught at LaPlata H.S. for over 30 years as a social studies teacher. He was highly involved in school activities through coaching and serving as the Key Club Advisor as well as the Student Government Association teacher Advisor. The students honored Mr. Mahon's memory by naming this event in his honor with proceeds going to the Pete Mahon Scholarship fund and the March of Dimes.

Before the official run/walk began there was a 400m Fun Run for children ages 10 and under.

While the Key Club students worked hard getting the racers ready to take off, many members of the Kiwanis Club of LaPlata set up the refreshment tents. When the racers returned from their run or walk, there was fresh fruit, bagels, and plenty to drink for everyone.

There were prizes awarded after the race in several categories.

The event raised over $4000.00! Mr. Mahon will be missed in the LaPlata community but his legacy will continue with this scholarship.

The first boy to complete the run was seven year old Zachary Swartzwelder.

Zachary being greeted at the end of the tunnel.

Jim Gorney escorts our very own Jonnie Mann to the refreshment tent. She not only helped set it up the refreshment tent, she walked the course!

Members of the Kiwanis Club of LaPlata: Back row: Jonnie Mann, Gale Crooks, Jim Gorney, John Reith. Front row: Judi Gorney, Andy Sanford, and Gordon Mann.

Walkers and Runners enjoying a snack!