By Staff Report
Community members of all ages were invited to lace up their running shoes for the Stars & Strides 5K and Family Fun Run, that took place Saturday, September 6, at John Clark Park in Esto.
Hosted by the Holmes County Chamber of Commerce and title-sponsored by the Holmes County Sheriff’s Office, the event combined fitness, family fun, and patriotic celebration. The other sponsors who helped make the event possible, was Panhandle Lumber and Supply, Reborn Remodeling, Glow RX, Emerald Coast Hospice, Green Pen Promotions, Pepper Town Market, Smith AutoWorks, Doctors Memorial Hospital, Joyfeel Therapy, and Angle Tree Acres.
Locke explained that events like Stars and Strides are not only about bringing people together but also helping sustain the Chamber’s mission.
“The Chamber of Commerce is a nonprofit that runs solely on memberships with partnering businesses,” she said. “Events like the 5K help raise money to cover the everyday expenses and needs of the Chamber so that it can focus on helping with business development, networking, and informational opportunities to the businesses.”
In addition, the Esto Volunteer Fire Department partnered with organizers of the event to provide children’s entertainment with “Touch a Truck” and water sprinklers for kids to enjoy at the park.
The event began with a check-in starting at 7:00 a.m. and was followed by the official start of the 5K at 8:00 a.m. Race packets were provided and included runner bibs and other materials for participants.
At the end of the race, awards were presented to the top racers. Prizes included a $100 cash award for the top overall male and female finishers, as well as medallion prizes for age division winners. A special prize was also awarded to the participant who was “Most Patriotic” in appearance.
In addition to the 5K, a 1-Mile Family Fun Run began at 8:15 a.m. Participants in the fun run were encouraged to run, walk, or stroll around the park’s scenic lake.
Reflecting on the morning, Chamber Board President and Co-Organizer Emily Locke praised the community’s teamwork and support.
“I could not have pictured a smoother event,” Locke said. “Joe’s Running Club managed times so we could focus on event management, and Mosaic School of Ministry volunteered in set up and break down and kept runners hydrated on the route. That lifted a huge burden, as it took several people to handle that role.”
She also acknowledged the critical role of safety and organization on the day of the run.
“Holmes County Sheriff’s Office on the roads gave us peace of mind for a safe running space,” she added. “All the runners—from three years old to 55 years old—left the start line and came back with no injuries or incidents. I thank God that He kept everyone safe and gave them all strength to finish strong.”
Locke closed by expressing her gratitude to the many hands that made the event possible.
“It was a beautiful morning, and a success for the Chamber,” she said. “We thank all the sponsors who gave to make this event possible. It’s incredible to be a part of such a great community.”
The morning ended with refreshments, music, and a closing ceremony for attendees to celebrate and connect. Organizers emphasized that the event was designed to promote community engagement, fitness and health, as well as local pride.
