Monster Dash set for Saturday in Heights
Posted On: Thursday, Oct. 22 2009 05:03 AM
By Mason W. Canales
Killeen Daily HeraldThe annual 5K run and walk, Monster Dash, which takes place at 8 a.m. Saturday, will have a greater purpose this year. It will help "Scare Away Polio."
Harker Heights Parks and Recreation teamed up with local Rotary clubs to hold the Monster Dash as a means to raise money and awareness about preventing polio.
"Saturday is World Polio Day, which is the perfect day for use to raise awareness and funds," Killeen-Heights Rotary Club president Lisa Griffin said.
The Killeen, Killeen Evening, Killeen-Heights and Copperas Cove Rotary clubs are hosting this event and finding sponsors for it, Griffin said. Rotarians around the world have been challenged to raise money and awareness to combat polio since the 1980s, she said.
Polio is a disease that affects a person's nerves and causes paralysis. It has nearly been eradicated through vaccination, but still exists in more remote areas, Griffin said.
"It is a disease that doesn't have to exist. It is crippling, and it is heartbreaking to see children with it when they don't have to have it," she said.
Registration is $20 for the 5K run and walk, and area residents can register either the day of the run starting at 7 a.m. or earlier at the Recreation Center, 307 Miller's Crossing.
Parks and Recreation is adding other features to the Monster Dash.
Runners are urged to wear costumes. There will be a free children's run starting at 8:45 a.m., said Parks and Recreation Athletic Coordinator Jason Arnold. The children's run is for those 12 and under and is a lap around the park. Each child who participates will get a medal.
There will also be a pre-carved pumpkin competition; everyone who comes to the run will get to judge pumpkins that residents bring, Arnold said.
"We are trying to get as many people as we can to the run," Griffin said. "The more people that are aware, the more likely we are to finish this battle."