10th Annual Dash for Downs set May 7 Annual 5k and fun run returns

  • Pictured are walkers and runners participating in the 2014 Dash for Downs. Contributed photo.
    Pictured are walkers and runners participating in the 2014 Dash for Downs. Contributed photo.

     

    Residents from Yoakum and surrounding communities are preparing to dust off their sneakers and slide into their running shorts in preparation for the 10th Annual Dash for Downs scheduled for May 7.

     

    Since 2011, the Yoakum Shape Shop (YSS) has organized the trek through town each May to benefit the Down Syndrome Foundation of South Texas (DSFSTX) in honor of a local teenage girl.  YSS Owner Kristy Svec explained that DSFSTX was selected to receive proceeds from the race as a tribute to her daughter Macy, who had personally benefitted from therapies provided by the foundation.

     

    “(Macy) loves the race. We chose May because her birthday is May 11. So, she thinks it’s a big birthday party for her,” said Svec. “She usually rides around and cheers on the group, then she grabs the mic during awards and gets to talk on the mic and sing.”

     

    The event includes a 5k run that begins outside of the gym at 8 a.m. before sending participants through historic downtown and other parts of Yoakum. The Kids’ Fun Run begins an hour later and loops around the block surrounding the YSS. Following the runs, the awards ceremony recognizes the top three finishers from each gender and age category with medals for the 5K and Dairy Queen gift cards for the fun run. 

     

    The annual event has grown to attract roughly 400 runners annually and support from about 100 local businesses. The annual run typically collects between $8,000 and $12,000 to benefit DSFSTX, an organization Svec has personally seen positively impact individuals with Down syndrome and their families.

     

    “I’ve seen them use the proceeds to benefit kids with special needs through therapies and activities,” she said. “(Macy has) benefited from the therapies she’s received - horse riding therapy, speech therapy - (DSFSTX supports) all that. Also, Sparkles is a cheer group that my daughter participates in, and the Down Syndrome Foundation donates to that group.”

     

    DSFSTX provides scholarships to graduating seniors who have impacted or will impact those with special needs. Additionally, the organization supports the Dancing Turtles at On Pointe in Schulenburg, a ballet class for those with special needs. 

     

    Those interested in participating can download entry forms at yoakumshapeshop.com. Visit the Dash for Downs Facebook page or call (361) 293-1840 for additional information.