Awesome 3000 returns in a big way on a sunny Saturday
Kids from across Salem-Keizer mass at Bush Park for event after three years away
With memories of the Covid-19 pandemic now in the rearview mirror, almost 2,000 children took part in the annual Awesome 3000 run at Bush’s Pasture Park Saturday. Kids from kindergarten through high school took part in the event, back after a three-year absence.
The students were raced in stages by age groups, from early Saturday morning (about 8:30 am) until shortly after noon. Parents crowded into the grandstands at Willamette University’s McCulloch Stadium, where participants were encouraged and cheered as they crossed the finish line on the university track.
Racers not only received recognition, but they got a tee-shirt in advance of the event, and received a medal upon completion of the run.
Jen Golden was one of hundreds of parents on hand to watch the kids race. Her son Conner is a fourth grader at Sumpter Elementary School.
“The atmosphere was electric,” said Golden.
“It was great to see so many excited kids and parents!”
Golden also admitted that it was great to put the pandemic behind her and her family.
“This event is always something that our kids looked forward to, so it was nice to have it back after a long three years—bringing some normalcy back into our lives.”
The Awesome is celebrating its 38th year. It had been gone the past three years not only because of the pandemic, but also because of financial issues with the now defunct Salem Keizer Education Foundation. The United Way of the Willamette Valley organized the event for the first time this year.
Also a first—the entire race was broadcast live on Captial Community Media—formerly CCTV. The festivities were aired on cable channel 22, and will be repeated in the future. CC Media says the first replay is slated for May 3rd at 2:30 pm. You can check the future schedule at this link.
As always, well done with your summary reporting! The reboot of this event hopefully is just the beginning of many to come, organized by United Way, embraced by the community, and supporting our school students and staff.