Finaghty's 2010 St. Patty's Day Run - Snoqualmie

On Saturday 3/13, Race Director Sean Sundwall of Snoqualmie, WA put on his 2nd Annual St. Patty's Day Run that featured a 1k for the kids and 5k for the more serious runners. As 'luck' would have it, both races were spared from the rain that had been lingering around much of the previous week with cool early temps of 38 degrees with sun breaks making their way through.

It is really fantastic to have a local event like this that brings out so many youth and adults. The kids are eager for these kind of events and to be able to run with mum and dad makes it that much more exciting for them. Of the over 930 registrants (640 5K finishers), there were 408 Snoqualmie residents who participated. The popularity of Sean's other races (Turkey Trot in November and 10k Railroad Days Race in August) have drawn the attention of runners from all over Puget sound with more than 400 outside registrants part-taking in the local race. It was a really festive atmosphere that had something for everyone with many of the local businesses doing their part as active sponsors. 

I enjoy participating in these races as it gives a real sense of community for a small area like Snoqualmie and we have Sean to thank for putting in the time he does to organize these events. In addition my 5.5 year old boy Mateo and 3.5 year old daughter Sabrina both were excited to be a part of the excitement with 'Mister' completing his 2nd St. Patty's Day Run that consisted of just a brief 5 second pause before he finished strong. The morning chill was a bit much for Sabrina but she started well and finished with a big smile!

Over $3,000 were raised for various charities in the area: 

Snoqualmie Valley Track Club
Cascade View Elementary School PTSA
Snoqualmie Elementary School PTSA
Seattle Children's Hospital
Mt. Si High School Track and Field
Histiocytosis Association of America.  

Race results can be found Here. Next up for Sean is the Cinco de Mayo 1/2 Marathon and 8k race in Snoqualmie Valley that he professes to be the fastest course in Western WA. More information on this and future races can be found at http://www.runsnoqualmie.com/.