Fast or slow, it doesn’t matter. The annual Pirate Dash helps raise money for the three elementary schools, Fairhope East, Fairhope West and J. Larry Newton. In its 10th year in running, the Pirate Dash takes participants through a scenic route down beautiful Knoll Park throughout the back route of Bayview Ave.
A second-year participant and volunteer Mandy Bruns said participating in the run is beneficial and good for the community and the people.
“I have participated in the Pirate Dash for two years, I will continue to do it again because it’s a great community event that brings all three schools together,” Bruns said. The Pirate Dash is a fun way to earn money for the schools and the kids get to participate and help with the good cause,” Bruns said.
Thompson Animal Hospital sponsors the annual event. The money collected from the run goes to benefit the early education in Fairhope.
“The money then can be used for any needs the schools may have that are not covered by the county or state,” Bruns said.
Bruns has two children, Sadie and Wilson Bruns. Both children participate in the run. “Having two children In the Fairhope school system, I will continue to support events that help raise money for the school systems in a fun way,” Bruns said.
Even when not running, standing on the sidelines to show support for your children is fun as well. Bruns enjoys watching all the smiles on the kids’ faces.
“My favorite part of the run is seeing all the kids having fun and running through the finish line,” Bruns said.
The run is an important part of the community and all around brings joy to the runners and viewers. Bruns thinks everyone should participate in the run, it’s a good way to get some exercise and raise money for the local schools.
“I would encourage people to participate for many reasons, including the money raised, bringing people together, and the health benefits no matter if you walk, or run,” Bruns said.
Having this event is an amazing way to bring people together, the three separate schools join in unity to run for the same cause.
Bruns said there are health benefits, no matter walking or running. Participants benefit from the exercise and money raised is for a great cause.
“The Pirate Dash brings a sense of unity to our community while promoting a healthy lifestyle,” Bruns said.
Participants do not have to be incredible runners and can choose their speed and run or walk at their own pace.
“The Pirate Dash is a health benefit for everyone, whether you walk or run,” Bruns said.
Running in this event benefits the three schools evenly. The money raised from this event goes to anything and everything the county does not cover. Want some shade on the playground? The money raised can go to that and many other things.
The Pirate Dash takes place every year at around the same time frame. Residents and visitors should consider putting the event on the calendar.
