There were multiple Big Foot sightings on the grounds of the Lake County Board of Developmental Disabilities on a brisk but sunny Sunday morning.
There were also hundreds of men, women and children walking or running through the wooded Deepwood campus in Mentor around the same time.
Those people weren’t running from the hairy beast, rather they were running for a cause and Big Foot was happy to play a major role.
There was something bigger than even the mythical man of the hour happening as the annual Big Footer 5K Race and Walk on March 29 took place to support Special Olympics Lake County and raise awareness about developmental disabilities.
In its 27th year, the event was a blend of competition, community and a little mythical fun as the legendary Big Foot joined athletes, families and supporters.
“This is a timed race while supporting a local cause and it’s great for serious runners as well as a family‑friendly event or a fun way for friends to support their community,” said Chris Bundy, Special Olympics Lake County Coordinator.
“Most races have a theme and since we are kind of hidden back in the woods and everyone seems to love Big Foot, we figured what better way to celebrate the event.”
Bundy said 220 people registered to take on the 3.1‑mile course, which winds through the grounds of the Deepwood campus in Mentor. As runners moved through the route, they encountered Big Foot–themed markers and Big Foot himself — ready for photo ops, warm‑ups and surprise appearances.
Every registered participant received an original Big Footer T‑shirt, a wooden Big Foot medal and a pancake breakfast. A limited number of special prizes went to anyone lucky enough to snag a flag from Big Foot during the race.
“We are fortunate that we can host the Big Footer 5K on the LCBDD’s campus,” Bundy said. “About 15 County Board staff will volunteer their time on Sunday to make this a standout event.”
“This is a big community event that involves not just runners,” Bundy added. “We are a family here at the Lake County Board of DD and this is a great opportunity for our athletes of our local Special Olympics program, volunteers and employees to show the community our campus, our family and the great corporations and service organizations that believe in our mission and do it all around a fun event that puts smiles on everyone’s face. Everyone loves Bigfoot. It’s a showcase of our campus, our athletes and community partners to an audience that might not otherwise see it.”
Local schools were represented, as well as members of the community.
“Big Footer 5K is an outstanding community event that brings people together for a great cause,” Lake County Treasurer Michael Zuren said. “I’ve seen first-hand the joy and positive impact these efforts create. If you’ve run this race the past few years, like so many dedicated participants, you know the rewarding experience it offers — both the physical challenge on the scenic course and the deeper satisfaction of giving back.”
Race winner Josh Bogner and his son Isaac, who finished second, have a connection with the event through their volunteer efforts at their church with those with developmental disabilities.
Brogner, who is planning to run in the upcoming Boston Marathon, said the day wasn’t about first place or running times.
“This isn’t about us, there is something bigger going on and we were glad to be a part of it,” Brogner said. “We really love what Deepwood does for the community.”
The Special Olympics Lake County program is part of an array of recreational services offered by the Lake County Board of Developmental Disabilities.
To learn more about the Board’s programs and services, go to www.LakeBDD.org/ or connect on social media @DeepwoodLakeDD.
More Info