Hand-made Torches for each age group winner!

Hand-made Torches for each age group winner!

Vision
The fourth annual Live Locally 5K, held at the Polson Health Care Plus building on October 23 was a marvelous feat of organization, planning and collaboration. Country Foods’ Heather Knutson and Health Care Plus Sarah Hartsoch Bird began planning this year’s race in July, wondering how they could creatively and appropriately implement the Live Locally theme into the event. What they came up with was to donate all proceeds to Melinda Owen, a 2003 Polson graduate who has high hopes (and a good shot) to compete in the Pole Vault event at the 2012 Olympics in London, England.

Heather, Melinda & Sarah

Heather, Melinda & Sarah

Support
Sarah and Heather started putting on the miles to gather sponsorships, prize donations, and support from local businesses to help make the event a success, and wound up with some amazing contributions. Country Foods and Health Care Plus would like to officially thank ALL our contributors, whether the contribution was a sponsorship, prize, time and effort, or just a good idea! Without you and your business support, the Live Locally 5K event would not have been the amazing success it was.

Participation

Owen 2012 Hat

Owen 2012 Hat

This year’s race registrations totaled 231, a record high! Melinda was on hand signing autographs, taking photos, and handing out awards (miniature torches!!). There were over 85 prizes given away to race participants, and EVERY registrant received a free Sigg aluminum water bottle, donated on behalf of Melinda by her clothing sponsor, lululemon. Each runner also received a stylish race shirt, designed by Total Screen Designs Mike Lozar, and a bag of Country Pasta. A bonus to this year’s event was the sale of military and baseball style hats, tastefully embroidered with Owen 2012. This stroke of genius helped raise additional funds for Melinda and her Olympic dreams.

Results
2010 Live Locally Race Results
We are proud to say that this year’s Live Locally 5K event raised over $4,000 for Melinda!! Additionally, Country Foods has chosen to become the first Big Sky Club sponsor of Melinda’s Olympic journey. We are honored to support Melinda’s strong character and athletic talents. You can follow, encourage and support Melinda on her blog and Facebook as she trains, competes and prepares for the Big Event!

Melinda Owen with overall winners Jake Hartsoch & Ann Penturf

Melinda Owen with overall winners Jake Hartsoch & Ann Penturf

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