Fast Start for Christian Corneau Memorial Run
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Pajama-clad kids, Ipod-draped teens, knee-braced parents and even more serious runners braved 40-degree weather to launch the "Go the Distance" Memorial Run at the Rockwall YMCA. The first annual event honored the memory of one of their friends, Christian Corneau, who died in an accident in 2006.
The playful 14-year-old who inspired the event would have been proud of the YMCA's first effort at sponsoring the fun run which included a tougher 5K run and one mile walk.
"Christian lived for his music, friends, faith and fun," said father, Max Corneau. "This race represented parts of all the things that made him such a joy to be around and now there are new memories to connect to his life."
Coming the week after the state high school cross country meet, it was the perfect time for runners of all types to go for a pleasant jog. But, that didn't keep Taylor Hein from racing 3.2 miles to record a first place finish in the inaugural run. Bernie Vidito finished within seconds of Hein and 13-year-old Justin Tokuz finished steps away in third.
The money raised during the event will go to the Partners Campaign, the YMCA's financial assistance fund to help people who are unable to afford YMCA programs.
"What a great way to honor Christian and a great way for the Corneau family to remember Christian, as still helping others," said Mike Atkins, YMCA director. "The Corneau family has been such a big part of the Rockwall Y for many years. This event really fits in with the family atmosphere and feeling we try to foster here. We are not just a gym, we are a place for the whole family."
Event sponsors included State Farm agent John Elsey who, along with the Rockwall Sports Center, funded the brightly colored race t-shirts.
"I just saw the ad at the Y and I decided I wanted to be involved in it," said John Elsey. "I didn't know Michelle or Max until the day of the run but, after seeing it, I want to be a part of it in the future. It makes you take a step back and think about the important things in life."
Photo: Dave Kirwan
Dave Kirwan is a supporter of the Christian Corneau Memorial Run
