Children’s Justice Center raises awareness through 5K, quarter marathon; Cedar City News Photo Gallery

Runners gathered for the annual Iron County Children's Justice Center Run for the Kids 5k and quarter marathon, Cedar City, Utah, May 17, 2014 | Photo courtesy of Iron County Children's Justice Center

CEDAR CITY – The Iron County Children’s Justice Center Run for the Kids 5K and quarter marathon took place Saturday morning, with 139 locals coming out to show their support and compete.

Stephanie Furnival, director of the Iron County Children’s Justice Center, said she was happy and amazed by the support the event received.

“Absolutely amazing,” Furnival said. “There was a lot of other events going on today and so we weren’t sure how that was going to effect our numbers for the race.”

The race featured prizes such as gift baskets, a Kindle Fire and an entry into the St. George Marathon.

Cedar City resident C’era Francis won the marathon entry. She said she was excited, since she has participated in the marathon in the past.

13-year-old Hunter Jones of finishing 2nd overall in the 5k, Cedar City, Utah, May 17, 2014 | Photo courtesy of Iron County Children’s Justice Center

Young talent

Highlights of the race included an impressive performance by 13-year-old Hunter Jones, of Cedar City, who finished second overall in the 5K.

“We do this pretty much every year as a family,” Jones said. “It’s like pretty much our only family race, and we just like to come help support the Children’s Justice Center.”

While most people came to support the center with a Saturday morning workout, Jones came to race.

“When I was going I got into a good pace I felt comfortable at,” he said. “I just wanted to stay up with the leaders, and one of my main goals was to beat Leslie Brindley. I think I did that.”

This was followed by laughter from Cedar City resident Leslie Brindley. In response, she said, “He is such a cute little runner.”

“I’m friends with the race director,” Brindley said. “I just wanted to support her.”

Runners gathered for the annual Iron County Children’s Justice Center Run for the Kids 5k and quarter marathon, Cedar City, Utah, May 17, 2014 | Photo courtesy of Iron County Children’s Justice Center

Family fun

Eric and Maggie Lewis came out to enjoy the run with their children, 8-year-old Tyler and 6-year-old Megan. Eric Lewis won overall in the 6.55-mile quarter marathon.

“We actually have done it the last three years,” he said.

“It’s fun,” Maggie Lewis said. “We support Stephanie and what she’s doing.”

All proceeds from Run for the Kids supported the Children’s Justice Center in its efforts to combat child abuse.

The Iron County Children’s Justice Center is a nonprofit organization that coordinates with law enforcement and child protective services to provide the best care possible for child abuse victims and their families, whether the child has experienced physical abuse, sexual abuse, domestic violence or drug endangerment.

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