[See videos from prior races further down this page]
Since 1998, SpectraLight Photography has been the founding sponsor for the Olmsted Spirit 5K – providing college scholarships for hundreds of OFHS students. The event has become a much anticipated “Rite of Spring” as hundreds of Olmsted residents come out to support the race. From 1998 – 2023… $266,00.00 in college scholarships have been awarded. An additional $2500.00 has also been awarded to the Olmsted Community Center since 2022.
Viola Wyderka and Kitty Fenderbosch Revive an Old Tradition
In 1998 Olmsted residents and school district employees, Viola Wyderka and Kitty Fenderbosch, revived an old tradition in the Olmsted community – the Olmsted Spirit 5K. From 2000 – 2013, the event was renamed the Dara Hosta Olmsted Spirit 5K in memory of the OFHS Freshman who passed away a few days after winning the 400 meter run in gym class.
The Hosta Family Returns the Race to the Community
For 14 years, Bruce and Fonda Hosta tirelessly planned and executed the race in their daughter – Dara’s memory. They took an event that had a handful of participants and grew it to over 700 runners/walkers with hundreds more cheering them on from the sidelines. They raised over $200,000.00 in scholarships for OFHS graduating seniors during that time.
Over the years, it has been a privilege and an honor to assist Bruce and Fonda behind the scenes with the design of brochures, flyers and posters, press releases, website creation and maintenance, sponsor solicitation and business adviser. I will miss all the emails, phone calls and meetings that we shared to make the race a success.
The Passing of the Torch
During the 2013 Dara Hosta Olmsted Spirit 5K, I had the opportunity to chat with a regular participant – Olmsted Falls native Jeff Swislocki. After finishing the race, he mentioned how he would love to have a race of his own to benefit people in need.
When Fonda Hosta told me that she and Bruce were giving the race back to the community, my concern was, “Who would carry on the event and appreciated the importance of family and community by helping those in need?” Jeff Swislocki was the answer!
Jeff graduated from Olmsted Falls High School in 2002. He served our country in the United States Air Force from 2009 – 2017 and now works for the Air National Guard. He is an avid runner – participating in several full marathons and half marathons and over 40 – 5K and 10K races.
Jeff has been the Race Director since 2014. Assisted by his parents, Maryanne and Paul, and countless volunteers – Jeff has tirelessly continued the race to this day!
Event Name Change
At the request of Fonda and Bruce, the event name has been shortened to its original title: Olmsted Spirit 5K.
New Race Website
For the latest info about the Olmsted Spirit 5K Race/Walk, visit www.OlmstedSpirit.com.
My Involvement
I’ve been involved in the Olmsted Spirit 5K in various capacities since its inception in 1998. As the founding sponsor, my studio, SpectraLight Photography, provided the seed money to cover initial startup expenses.
As a Pennsylvania state participant in high school cross country and track, I value the camaraderie that running with others provides. As a graduate of the Art Institute of Pittsburgh, I understand the high cost of post-secondary education. Thus, my involvement in the Olmsted Spirit 5K has helped bring the Olmsted community together for a healthy, fun activity while raising money for OFHS grads heading off to college.
As a business advisor, I’ve mentored three different race directors over the years – offering continuity and recommendations for enhancing the overall race experience.
My hope is for the Olmsted community to continue supporting and enjoying this event for years to come.
Mark Madere
Founding Sponsor – Olmsted Spirit 5K
President – SpectraLight Photography | Social Media Solutions
See ALL the Olmsted Spirit 5K Race videos HERE or watch last year's video – below.
