The 7th Annual CASA 5K race was a huge success thanks to a record setting 159 runners registered and 8 new sponsors who joined the cause in 2024. The weather was perfect as the runners gathered for the 9am start at Vista Real Estate headquarters in Temple. The record number of runners surpassed last year’s total of 121 to make this the largest field in event history.

State Representative Hugh Shine spoke to the participants and CASA volunteers to thank them for supporting CASA in a way that will enhance the number of children in foster care that can receive the advocacy services offered by the Bell and Coryell Counties CASA office. The runners enjoyed a paved 3.1 loop through the Westfield area of Temple which has consistently been praised for its beauty and natural settings along the route.

CASA Advocates running in the race included John Porter, Maddy Ramos, Christine Fletcher, and Valerie McCullough. Board members who assisted with the event coordination, check in, and registration were Deana Stafford, Maria Jones Hall, Lee Ann deal, Jennifer Ramirez, Laura Smith, Dusty Stafford, Ashley Clapper Bennett, and Shelley Boley. Race day support was provided by CASA Staff members and advocates George Antonio, Kevin Lee, Melissa Ward, Fiona Williams, Denise Hanley, Miesha Elliott, Sarah Beaty, and Desseray Valenzuela.

Twenty local companies sponsored the race this year to help generate proceeds that will allow CASA to recruit more volunteer advocates and serve more children. Race results can be found HERE and photos of the fun and festivities are below. CASA thanks everyone who made the event so special and looks forward to hosting the 8th Annual 5K in March of 2025.