Photo submitted to the Times Observer Participants (some displaying their awards), dressed in warm attire, showed dedication to raising funds for the Warren County Victims Impact Panel by participating in the cold weather in the morning recently in the Warren County Victim Impact Panel’s 5K Fun Run/ Walk.

A very cold morning at Betts Park in Warren, didn’t stop many runners and walkers from participating in the April 13 Warren County Victim Impact Panel’s (VIP) 5K Fun Run/Walk.

The race, held annually to raise money for the VIP, began bright and early that Saturday morning in the park with almost 30 participants preparing to participate in the fundraising run, to raise funds for the VIP scholarship program.

The race itself began at 8:30 a.m. from the park, and according to Victim Impact Coordinator Monica Prowitt, was completed by 9:30 a.m.

Four walkers and 17 runners were registered to participate in the fun run/walk, with a couple of last-minute signups as well, according to Prowitt.

The fastest time overall was accomplished by Justice Greene with a time of 21:16; the next fastest overall was Heidi Kell with a time of 21:35.

The three participants who finished with the fastest times received awards for their achievement and dedication to the run.

Prowitt also confirmed that the oldest runner was 65 years old and the youngest only 10 years of age — and both finished in first place within their age brackets.

The race course consisted of 3.1-miles on a flat, fast surface; which was three loops around the scenic Betts Park. Both the start and finish of the race were located near the Betts Park boat launch.

The Warren County VIP is comprised of individuals who have been negatively affected by someone driving while under the influence. Each year the panel raises funds by holding fundraisers, such as this 5K fun run, to support its scholarship program which provides an annual scholarship to a graduating senior from each high school in Warren County.

Next year the run has been scheduled on April 12, 2025.

For more information, visit warrenvip.org or email vipwarrenpa@gmail.com.