Go Green Clayton 5K Attracts 400 in Second Year

Approximately 400 people participated Sunday in the Go Green Clayton 5K at Gay Field in , said Nicole Miller, physical education and health curriculum coordinator for the .

The run received sponsorship from the (CHS) , the school district and the . The event was intended to promote healthy living, community pride and a greener Clayton, according to information provided at the run.

The day included a 5K for adults and a shorter fun run for younger participants.

“You can’t do enough of these types of events for kids,” Miller said. “It keeps them active, and they get really excited about being outdoors.”

This year’s 5K run marks the second year for the event. The CHS Green Club, a student group that supports sustainability at the school, will give its portion of the proceeds to an environmental organization. The Clayton Century Foundation, a nonprofit that seeks to improve the city, will use its proceeds to further that mission.

The 5K kicked off at 8:30 a.m., followed by the fun run at 9:30. Plenty of young people wore running attire and race numbers.

Clayton resident Willa Melander, age 8, said she entered the race because she wanted some exercise. Her mother, Becky Melander, also participated in the run.

“I think this is for a great cause, to be environmentally friendly,” Becky Melander said. “It’s also an important thing to get exercise. It’s a great thing for the kids to know at a young age.”

Bridgette Jordan delivered bottled water and food to runners. Her company, Chartwells, provides the district's food services.

“I appreciate the opportunity to be a part of the district,” Jordan said. “This is a reasonable place for me to be with the drinks.”