“We aim to introduce our beloved Koreatown to our neighbors.”
The LA Runners Club was an early entrant to the 10th Annual LOVE SHARE 5k/10k run/walk set for September 16 in Koreatown, an event orchestrated by the Korea Daily and Happy Village. “For us, nurturing bonds with our neighbors takes precedence over winning the race,” stated the LA Runners Club.
The club is among the pioneer organizations that have been participating since the inception of the event in 2012.
This year, over 40 members, including their eldest at 85, have registered for the marathon in line with its theme “Stop the Hate & Share Love in the Community.” Recognizing the marathon’s altruistic objectives, some have brought along family and even grandchildren for the run.
[‘Love Share Marathon’ returns to LA Koreatown after 4-year hiatus]
On the event day, they will also take the initiative to distribute watermelons, a signature gesture of the LA Runners Club.
“Annually, our members proactively buy 10-15 watermelons and hand out slices along the race route to keep runners hydrated,” said Coach Sangho Seo. “This tradition continues this year with members and other volunteers distributing watermelon slices to boost runners’ spirits.”
“The postponement of the Love Sharing Marathon due to the pandemic was disheartening. We anticipate this occasion will prompt participants to reappreciate Koreatown and foster a sense of togetherness.”
Established on July 4, 2007, the LA Runners Club boasts over 100 members, aged between 20 and 85, all residents of Koreatown. They congregate at Griffith Park every weekend morning at 5:30 a.m. for strength training and mingling.
“Group runs and walks bolster both our physical and mental well-being,” said Coach Seo. “I am optimistic that the collective spirit of the event will serve as a therapeutic experience for many.”
In other news, this year’s LOVE SHARE 5k/10k run/walk is set to unveil more generous gifts to highlight and commemorate the Korea Daily’s 49th anniversary. The proceeds from this event will be shared to schools and non-profits within the Korean American community and other communities.
For further details, reach out to (213)368-2630 or happyvillage@koreadaily.com.
BY NICOLE CHANG [chang.nicole@koreadaily.com]
