1st Dash on the Dam raises $7,375 for childhood cancer organizations
The inaugural Dash on the Dam 5K and 1-Mile Gold-Bow Fun Run, presented by TCO Construction, brought the community together on Saturday, Sept. 20, for a day of fitness, fun and generosity atop the iconic Santee-Lake Marion Dam.
The event drew 10 runners for the 5K and eight participants for the 1-Mile Fun Run, with proceeds totaling an impressive $7,375 raised in support of three childhood cancer organizations and local children: Camp Happy Days, Curing Kids Cancer and Childhood Cancer Partners.
The event was proudly managed by the Optimist Club of Clarendon, a chapter of Optimist International, as part of its mission to bring out the best in youth, the community and one another.
Adding to the meaningful atmosphere, the top three male and female finishers in the 5K were recognized with certificates presented by MC Buyck, a Clarendon County teen who has personally faced childhood cancer and continues to inspire others with her resilience.
Top three male runners: Price Bailey, 22:05; CJ Barkley, 28:48; and Rob Ardis, 29:33
Top three female runners: Shannon Ardis, 35:47; Christie Dyson, 43:26; and Janet Pratt, 50:28
A highlight for many participants was a special pre-race appearance by service K-9 Deputy Matteo, who offered encouragement and excitement at the starting line. Meanwhile, young attendees enjoyed gold-bow face painting provided by the National Art Honor Society of Manning High School, symbolizing the fight against childhood cancer.
"Dash on the Dam was more than just a race - it was a celebration of community, hope and support for families impacted by childhood cancer," said Lisa Justice, event director. "We are deeply grateful to every runner, volunteer and sponsor who helped make this first event a success."
Club President Claudette Elliott would like to thank the title sponsor, TCO Construction, for their amazing support, as well as Gold, Silver and Mile-Marker Sponsors listed below.
Gold: Santee Electric Cooperative; Bank of Clarendon; Porter Jacks; Q-Signs; and SAFE
Silver: Laura Allen and Roger Sullivan; Chick-Fil-A of Manning; Coffey & McKenzie, PA; Land, Parker, & Welch; Santee Ford; Duke Energy; and FTC
Mile-Markers: Lucy's Traditional Southern Bakehouse; Sumter Evening Optimist Club; Agape Wealth Management; Stephens Funeral Home; Bonanza Flea Market; Thomas Concrete; Rooster's Car City, Prothro Chevrolet; Santee Ford; Thommy Mac's; The Grill; and ESP.
With its successful debut, organizers hope to make Dash on the Dam an annual tradition, continuing to shine a light on the fight against childhood cancer while uniting the Manning and Clarendon County communities.
About the beneficiaries
- Camp Happy Days provides year-round programs and experiences for children battling cancer and their families.
- Curing Kids Cancer raises money to support cutting-edge childhood cancer research and treatments.
- Childhood Cancer Partners offers emotional and financial support to local families during treatment and recovery.
About the Optimist Club
of Clarendon
The Optimist Club of Clarendon is a community service organization dedicated to bringing out the best in kids and supporting youth, schools and families throughout Clarendon County. Formed in 2017 as part of Optimist International, the club works to promote positive change through service projects, fundraisers and events that inspire hope and encourage growth. It meets the second Tuesday of every month at local restaurants.
"We're a low-key, fun group who all enjoy helping kids," say members when asked to describe what the club is about.
For more information or to learn how to support these organizations, please contact Lisa Justice, event director, or President Claudette Elliott, through our Facebook page or at our email address, optimistclubclarendon@gmail.com.