Light rain did not dampen the spirits or the enthusiasm for the Hyundai Hope On Wheels 5K and Color Fun Run on Saturday, Sept. 30.
The event, held at the Fountain Valley Sports Park, attracted a record 844 registered runners between the certified 5K, Color Fun Run, and virtual run option, and raised $37,000 for the Hyundai Hope On Wheels pediatric cancer research, as well as local school groups and charities.
This year is the 25th anniversary of Hyundai Hope On Wheels, and following this year’s event, Hyundai Hope On Wheels will surpass a lifetime total donation of $225 million in support of more than 1,300 childhood cancer research grants.
Congratulations to the Fountain Valley High School Dance Team, which had a great showing with a team total of 63 members. Local non-profits and school groups with 10 or more team members were eligible to earn funds from the net proceeds of the event.
Eight of the 10 schools in the Fountain Valley School District met that challenge. Organizers congratulated the top three schools — Masuda with 45 runners, Courreges with 42 runners, and Plavan with 35 runners. The No. 1 school also won a free movie night from the Fountain Valley Recreation Department to use as an additional fundraiser or fun gathering.
Organizers thanked the Courreges Cougar mascot, who came out to support the school’s team and thanked all of the teams that participated and helped to make the event a successful fundraiser.
“Of course, a huge thank you to the sponsors, CHOC, (and their mascot, CHOCO Bear), CompassX Group, InStudio Orthodontics, Bennett Acupuncture, Fountain Valley Community Foundation, Fountain Valley Grocery Outlet, Fountain Valley Living Magazine, Fountain Valley Regional Hospital, Kingston Technology, Mimi’s Jewelry, Sports Basement, Yakult, and, of course, Hyundai Motor America for allowing the city to host this fabulous event. Stater Brothers on Euclid and Warner also donated water for the water station,” said Michelle Karajelian, manager, corporate social responsibility and external relations for Hyundai.
Female – Overall
1. Lisa Cichon, HB
2. Elizabeth Park, Aliso Viejo
3. Sarah Hong, Fountain Valley
Male – Overall
1. Shane Hill, Fountain Valley
2. Ethan Chan, Irvine
3. Rory Aberton, Torrance
14 and under
Female: Lisa Cichon, HB
Male: Shane Cichon, HB