|
By Olin Ericksen
Staff Writer
October 23 -- Building a better local hospital brought nearly
2,000 runners out Sunday, including celebrities, for the first
annual Saint John’s Health Center Santa Monica 5 and 10
Kilometer race.
While it was a hazy morning along Santa Monica’s beachfront,
many of the runners said they could clearly see the goal of helping
build a new emergency department at the local hospital.
“It’s for a good cause, and it’s a good time,”
said runner Susan Smith, who with her boyfriend was one of hundreds
who participated and then attended a post-race party on the Santa
Monica Pier.
Although the race lasted the entire morning, several stars were
out.
Isaiah Washington from “Grey’s Anatomy,” JAG
Actor David James Elliott, C.S.I. Actress Yeniffer Behrens, L.A.
Roadrunners Coach Pat Connelly, Actress Lisa Arturo from “American
Pie 2” and “Jackass 2,” and 2005 Miss Massachusetts,
Cristina Nardozzi, all made the race.
Alex Bell and Kim Powers from “Survivor” were also
there, with Bell serving up flapjacks.
Several seasoned athletes also attended.
First place competitive winners won $1,000 in the 5K, second
won $500 and third won $300.
The 10K first place finisher took home $500, while the first
place Santa Monica resident pocketed $200.
Nearly 30,000 patients pour through the doors of Saint John's
24-hour Emergency Department which provides lifesaving treatments.
Race organizers hope the course winding along Santa Monica’s
sweeping shoreline will help make the event a popular draw for
years to come.
Race sponsors included New Balance, Arrowhead Waters, Clif Bar,
Galaxy Granola, Don Francisco and Trader Joe’s as well as
media sponsors.
|
