Olmsted Falls

The Dara Hosta/Olmsted Spirit 5K Race/Walk was held on Sunday, May 1st in Olmsted Falls. Over 600 runners and walkers ranging in age from infants in strollers to eighty-four took part in the fund-raising annual event. An additional 200-300 family and friends were there to cheer on their loved ones.

It was extremely gratifying to have an event that brings out the community for fun, fellowship and exercise. Although the race has been in existence since 1998, it has grown significantly since 2006 raising over $100,000.00 for scholarships for Olmsted Falls' students over that five year period. It wouldn't be possible without the financial support of so many businesses from Olmsted Falls and beyond who donate money and door prizes as corporate sponsors.

In 2010, $21,000.00 in college scholarships was distributed to 42 Olmsted Falls High School graduates. To receive a scholarship, the student had to demonstrate their school and/or community spirit by the activities they were involved in during their lifetime.

Originally named the “Olmsted Spirit 5K Race/Walk” when first run in 1998, the event was renamed the “Dara Hosta Olmsted Spirit 5K Race/Walk” in 2000 in memory of the OFHS freshman who passed away after winning the 400 meter run in gym class in the Spring of 2000.

Did you walk, run or just watch the race? Did you know Dara personally? Do you know someone who received a scholarship in the past from the race? Please leave a comment on this post.

For videos of past races, click here.