CRESTVIEW — The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation has another $65,000 following Saturday’s fourth annual Great Strides Race for Lace in Downtown Crestview, event co-director Kristy Kolmetz said.
"Every year we have grown considerably," she said. "There was a little over 600 people that ran."
See an image gallery from Saturday's Great Strides Race for Lace 5K>>
Katie Eichling of Niceville brought her daughters Izzy, 2, and Taylor, 6, to support the cause for Lacy Adams, 4, of Baker. Lacy's family started the event to raise awareness for the chronic disease, which, in the U.S., affects nearly 3,000 people's lungs and digestive systems, according to the foundation's website. Those with CF develop thick mucus that can clog lungs — causing infections — and obstruct the pancreas, hindering digestion.
Many participants last weekend came to support a family member or friend with CF; and those who showed up appreciated the turnout.
"It's awesome; I really love the fact that there are this many (people) that come out to support this," Eiching said.
Charlie Clark, 41, of Pensacola, participated to support his 5-year-old daughter Sofia, who uses instruments to help her breathe.
"We try to keep positive and support her," he said. "We try to help her live a healthy lifestyle as much as we can."
Destin resident Phillip Bauer, the 5K’s first-place winner for the third consecutive year, said raising money for the foundation is more important than the race itself.
"Everybody is doing it for a good cause for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation … that is the most important part," he said.
Several local organizations provided free breakfast and refreshments to participants, along with children's activities and live music. The event concluded with an award ceremony.
Contact News Bulletin Staff Writer Matthew Brown at 850-682-6524 or matthewb@crestviewbulletin.com. Follow him on Twitter @cnbMatthew.
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Race for Lace 5K nets $65K for cystic fibrosis research (PHOTOS)