The second annual Benton 5K Run/Walk For Downs will be held this Saturday, Nov. 17, at the Benton Sports Complex. The event is designed to not only raise funds, but promote awareness for all individuals with Down syndrome.
The event has attracted individuals and teams of supporters whose lives have been touched by a loved one with Down syndrome. Amy Gates, assistant principal at Benton Elementary School, will be participating this year on behalf of her six-year-old daughter, McKenna.
Gates said she was surprised last year when Greg Bryant, a coach at Benton High School, organized the event with McKenna in mind and the amount of success they had for a first time event. Gates said they raised more than $3,000 last year and hope to double that number this year.
The run/walk will begin at 8 a.m. at the Benton Sports Complex. The entry fee is $15 and all proceeds from the event will be donated to the local Up With Downs organization, a non-profit family support group dedicated to improving the lives and livelihoods of those with Down syndrome.
The Benton Sports Complex is located at 415 Red River St. For more information, call Frank Trammell at (318) 549-5297 or Greg Bryant at (318) 549-5278.
For more information on Up with Downs, visit www.upwithdowns.com
