Catching (Wild)Fire – A Running Recap
On September 14th 2013 Klenda Austerman LLC sponsored a great local event—The Wild Wind XC (Cross Country) Festival. The purpose of the Wild Wind XC Festival is to “provide a first-rate cross country race for aspiring and established athletes, while at the same time introducing young children to the sport of running.” The organizers detail they feel that “a friendly, festive, energetic environment forms the best backdrop to accomplish these goals.”
We were on hand with over 1000 bottles of water, and 600 popsicles. The popsicles were a hit– not only with the young participants, but with the adults and volunteers as well!
In addition to providing water for all attendees, we were also there to cheer on some familiar faces! A few family members ran in the events— Member Greg Klenda’s daughter ran a 4K in 23:10 in the High School Girl’s JV race. Member Chris McElgunn’s daughter ran a 15:01 in the Jr. High 8th grade girls 2 mile race. Member Michelle Brenwald’s son, a member of the Flying Angels, ran in the youth K-3 boys 1 mile race. He finished 3rd with a time of 7:04.
Inspired by our youngest runners, the adults had their turn at Prairie Fire, a large regional running event. The event includes races for a full marathon, a half marathon, a 5K, A Fun-Run Walk, and a Youth Marathon. Over 3500 runners from 42 different states came to Wichita to participate in the race, which debuted in 2010. Klenda Austerman is a sponsor of the event.
In addition to sponsoring the event, the firm also sponsored 15 individual runners. Our runners included: Members Michelle Brenwald (5k), Chris McElgunn (Half and a new PR!), and Chasity Helm (28:11 5k), Associates Mike Baumberger (26:26 5k and a new PR!) and Sam Foreman (22:59 5k), and bankruptcy accountant Tara Hageman (30:07 5k).
Many more KA’ers were on hand to set up the tent, hang out, and cheer on the runners. The Prairie Fire Marathon Race Series is one of the firm’s favorite events, and we are already planning our participation for the Spring 2014 event—to be held on the 4th of May! Looking forward to seeing everyone out there!
