On April 17, 2014 hundreds of shoes pounded along the streets of Coral Gables as the Baptist Health Association held their 19^th Annual Tour of the Gables 5k. The event began in Downtown Coral Gables and continued along the beautiful scenery of the Granada Golf Course, which led to the streets of the Country Club Prado. The runners then ran back along the golf course and ended the 5k right where they started.

The event was coordinated by Team FootWorks and with the help of the Coral Gables Senior High Activities Program, and the Coral Gables Police, it was deemed successful. Along the course a series of students from the Activities Program directed runners, distributed water, and helped set-up as well as clean-up the event. The Coral Gables Police blocked off roads and cleared the streets allowing the runners to run freely along without the usual buzz of traffic.

“I’m just glad to be able to help all the exited runners and the Baptist Health Association with the 5K. I feel fulfilled knowing I was able to contribute,” sophomore(water distributor) Gabrielle Saliamonas said.

As each runner took their final few steps and reached the finish line, spectators and bystanders cheered for the names and times that were being called out. The tired runners and accomplished athletes were greeted with an assortment of fruits, bagels, coffee, massages, water, and even free giveaways such as one week free test trials and free gelato from the Coral Gables Country Club.

“I love [to participate in] this race every year due to the shaded course. Throughout the entire race the overhanging trees provide a cool run. This is one of my favorite races to participate in,” one of the runners said.

Once every one successfully completed the course, one year of free gym membership was presented to the winners of each category which was was generously donated by the Coral Gables Country club.

The entire course was surrounded by a lush green golf course full of leafy trees that hung over the runners paths and served as a blockade from the sun.

“I have ran this race through elementary and middle school, and have also ran a series of other 5k’s in this area; due to the beautiful scenery, this is by far my favorite 5k I’ve ever taken part in,” sophomore Jordan Payne said.

Through the help of the FootWorks foundation and the Coral Gables Activities program this event was deemed successful in raising countless funds to help the Baptist Heath Research Association better understand the importance of our health and well-being. Student Activities looks forward to participating in the race again next year.