Be Kind 5K Hits The Ground Running To Benefit Kin Wellness Center

BUCKINGHAM, PA — Dick Patterson wasn’t there to cheer on the runners as they crossed the finish line at the Be Kind 5K Race Saturday morning, but his spirit was alive and well in every participant who hit the ground running.

This year’s Bucks County 5K Series, including Saturday’s Be Kind 5K and four other races, is being run in memory of long-time series director Dick Patterson who passed away in March.

"It's likely many of you guys are here racing today because of him. His tireless energy, his leadership, his enthusiasm and most importantly his friendship have been felt by so many in our community," said 5K Series race director Kris Boger just before the start of the race. "For more than 20 years he cheered on your victories, your finishes and all of your race triumphs and he felt your disappointment when the race just didn't go your way."

The 1 mile fun run is off and running. (Photo by Jeff Werner)

The 1 mile fun run. (Photos by Jeff Werner)

Under Patterson’s guidance, the Bucks 5K Series flourished, becoming not just a series of races but a celebration of fitness, camaraderie, and mutual support. Dick’s vision and tenacity transformed the series into a cornerstone of Doylestown’s cultural landscape, attracting participants from far and wide who were drawn to the warmth and camaraderie he fostered.

The runners could have used some of that warmth Saturday morning as a stiff cold wind blew through Holicong Park as the one-mile fun run hit the pavement with a burst of youthful energy followed by the main event - the Be Kind 5K - about 30 minutes later.

This was the second year for the Be Kind 5K race, which joined the Bucks 5K series last year. The race is a fundraiser for the Kin Wellness Center in Buckingham, which provides support and care for breast cancer patients and their caregivers.

“I am so happy our nonprofit got involved with the amazing Bucks 5K Series,” said Kin founder and Be Kind 5K race director Keith Fenimore who spent a busy morning on his bike making sure the event ran smoothly.

“Our event is a bit different by design,” said Fenimore. “We attract serious runners, but also family, friends and loved ones who want to support, encourage and honor our local cancer community by walking in solidarity.”

According to Fenimore, this year's turnout saw nearly 650 people coming together to “impact our cancer community in a positive way through Kin.”

The Be Kind 5K is off and running. (Photo by Jeff Werner)

30-year-old Alex Izewski of Philadelphia crossed the finish line first with a time of 16:09.

Doylestown’s own Garrett Hynson crossed the finish line second with a time of 17:40.

Kellie Shimer of Richlandtown is the first female to cross the finish line at 19:48.

Fenimore joined Boger at the finish line where they cheered on and shouted words of encouragement to each runner as they finished the race.

The first to cross the finish line on Saturday was 30-year-old Alex Izewski of Philadelphia with a finishing time of 16:09.

Doylestown’s own Garrett Hynson crossed the finish line second with a time of 17:40. And Logan Bradly of Morrisville was third finishing the 5K in 18:06.

Kellie Shimer, 40, of Richlandtown, was the first female finisher posting a time of 19:48.

Complete race results are available at CompuScore by clicking here.