12th Annual Lupus Race for Life
Sunday, October 2, 2011 *La Mirada Regional Park *13701 Adelfa Ave, La Mirada, California
In just over 5 minutes, Savanah Martinez sprints across the finish line--she's the first for the 1 mile kids run. As each of the kids cross the finish line you can see the grit and dertmination on their faces. Each dug deep to get the best time they could. All were award medals of merit for participating and trying as hard as they did!
Julia Valdez wowed the crowd with a rendition of the national anthem that brought tears of pride. Sheriff Lee Baca presented Cesar Rodriguez's family with a plaque dedicating the 2011 Lupus Race for Life to their son's memory. Cesar was an explorer that worked the run each year, wihtout complaint did anything that was asked, he was the first there and the last to leave. He will remain in our hearts for ever.
CHP Chief Steve Beewseuirt, LAPD Commander Andrew Smith and nationally syndicated radio show host, Hugh Hewitt each addressed the crowd, gave their appreciation and wished them a good run.
Several teams returned in support of the run-SuperLupuers, Lupunators, Sweet Potatoes, Fruit Lupus, Looms for Lupus, Lee's Team Purple, Glenda's Crew, Rosebud and BB, Knock Out Lupus, and the many Los Angeles County, Orange County sheriff stations, LAPD and Long Beach Police Departments and fire fighers all raced in honor of those with lupus. Academy cadets ran in formation with Sheriff Lee Baca--what an impressive group.
CHP Officer Scott Wall lead the 5K runners through the route with Andres De La Cruz crossing the finish line with a time of 16:02. There after followed by the first law enforcement team winners, the LASD Special Enforcement Bureau. As the runners and walkers flowed in all were enthusiastic about the day and looking forward to a pancake breakfast along with chorizo/eggs and quesadillas. The Orange County Fire Authority along with Maggie Lopez cooked an amazing feast for more than 1700. A very special thank you to Cacique and Jax Market!!
This race would not be possible without the support from our sponsors and incredible team of volunteers. Each contributes to ensuring the success of the run. For some families this is a bittersweet day as they are running and walking in memory of a loved one lost to lupus. Team Kari has been with us the longest and continues to support Lupus International throughout the year. Andrea all of your efforts are deeply appreciated! We wouldn't be nearly as successful without Maggie from the Fight the Fight team. Her courage and dedication has remained steadfast for twelve years and continues throughout the year---thank you!
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you to everyone who participated, volunteered and sponsored this run. Remember, for those with fundraising teams, there's still one month to collect donations.