Today’s struggling economy and countless budget cuts have affected many organizations and events including The Kern County 24-Hour Relay Challenge.
Although the 19th annual challenge was cut in half to a 12-hour relay (and 12 hours of community service on top of that), that didn’t stop those involved from spreading their drug-free message.
The Kern County 24-Hour Relay Challenge is a community-supported fund-raising project that benefits youth involvement programs in Kern County middle and high schools. All proceeds raised by the 24-Hour Relay Challenge fund Club Live, Friday Night Live and Peer Helping programs. This year’s relay was held at Memorial Stadium at Bakersfield College on March 28, and brought together people of all ages and abilities.
Director of events Adrienne Buckle knew that the drop in attendance (compared to previous years) was due to the Multiple Sclerosis walk at Yokuts Park that same day as well as the change from 24 hours to 12.
“We hope to get back to the 24 hours next year,” said Buckle.
Janielle Moreno is an eighth grader at Fairfax Middle School. Her two younger sisters also participated in this event.
Other members from Janielle’s school comprised the team of 10 runners.They were also accompanied by her mother, Gina Moreno. Moreno explained how reassuring it was to know that her children were involved in such a good cause.
“There are countless things that they could be doing negative,” said Moreno.
The non-profit organization has raised money but also awareness about drug abuse and how it affects the young people in our community.
Mitchell Register is a physical education teacher at AM Thomas Middle School in Lost Hills. He and his team of students and faculty members participate in the event every year.
“It’s a great opportunity for community teams to see how many schools are involved.” said Register.
Register was accompanied by two well-accomplished eighth graders. Marco Sanchez is the president, and Lupita Bernabe is the vice president of their school’s student body.
Both students harbor 4.0 grade point averages and both participated in the relay.
Maricopa High School and Junior High were also involved in the festivities. They normally make the trip and participate, and this year was no different.
Mother of one of the runners and also a participant, Deborah Myers enjoys the camaraderie and environment at these events.
“The rapport that you get to build with the kids is great,” said Myers.
Most teams are made up of 10 people. Each runner has to complete four laps (one mile) and then pass it off to the next runner.
There was a hydrate station, medical booth, Marines booth and a DJ playing live music.