MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- With the finish line in sight, runners participating in the 2011 St. Patrick’s Day Run on the Green at Torii Pines Golf Course here Saturday, dripping with sweat, sped up as they tried to beat the other competitors to the finish line.
The Run on the Green is an annual event where children and adults can run and win medals.
This years’ run had 25 participants in the children’s division, and 53 in the adults’ category.
Children of all ages competed in a 2.5K run mapped out by Marine Corps Community Services, while participants 17 and older competed in a 5K run.
The Run on the Green event celebrates St. Patricks’ day a few days early and is a yearly event that everyone can enjoy, said Darci Kruse, MCCS health promotions assistant director.
The weather is much better than the last few years, she added.
Many of the participants treated this run as if it were a race while others were there just enjoying a day outside.
A few participants in the same age brackets supported each other by running together and motivating each other.
“I did good, I liked it,” said Simon Fontenot, the second place winner in the six years and under category.
Most participating members of the Run on the Green wore green, some more than others.
“I came out to show support and to have fun and get a little physical training in,” said William Slack, a participant in the men’s 30- to 39-year old division.
The St. Patricks’ Day spirit was brought out by the color green and great support was shown during this event here.