The Keith L. Young Memorial 5K has become a permanent fixture in the Green River community, with residents of the county lining up to participate in the event that annually raises thousands of dollars for the SADS (Sudden Arrhythmia Death Syndromes) Foundation.

“This exceeded our expectations,” David Young, president of the Keith L. Young Memorial Foundation, said. “We had well over 400 people here for the event, plus we had over 30 volunteers and a lot of spectators. I can’t complain, it was great. It was fantastic.”

Of the 428 participants, most were from Sweetwater County and around the state, but a few participants from California, Colorado, Idaho, South Dakota, Texas and Utah also showed up to compete in the race as well as support the cause. This year’s event was the most successful to date as more than $10,000 was raised.

“We have events that go on all across the country, but this is one of my favorite ones because the community comes out so much and everyone knows each other and supports the family so it’s really terrific,” Laura Wall, vice president of development and marketing for the SADS Foundation, commented. “It’s one of the highest netting fundraisers we have as well.”

The event not only raises money for the foundation, but draws attention to the seriousness of the disorder. Wall advised of three warning signs that could indicate the condition. Those who have a history of fainting during exercise or when startled, families with history of unexplained deaths such as SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) and those who experience pain or consistent pressure on the chest during exercise should seek help.

The disorder does not get worse or cause a person to get sicker, and with a pill taken once or twice a day, it can be managed.

Many local businesses also chipped in to help, as more than 100 door prizes were donated to the occasion.

“We appreciate the community’s support,” Young said. “The community helps us so much. We’ll be able to donate more than $10,000 to this good cause, the SADS Foundation, and the community support is what makes it at all possible.”

Those who placed in the top three spots in their division for the 2012 Keith L. Young Memorial 5 K can be found at the Green River Star's website.

SOURCE: http://www.greenriverstar.com/articles/2012/06/13/sports/doc4fd9248f46076857097989.txt
Written By, KYLE ARNOLDY

See more photos from this fantastic event!

 

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