Dozens run for a good cause at second annual JaxPAL’s 5K race

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Police Athletic League of Jacksonville held its second annual JaxPAL 5K and Fun Run Saturday morning.

The event bridges a gap — connecting local youth with our law enforcement — all while raising money for a good cause.

Dozens raced for the gold as they ran at Ed Austin Regional Park.

Matthew Pitarresi was among the runners who completed this race for the second year in a row.

“I ran it last year, and I won it. So, I had to come out here and defend the title,” Pitarresi said.

Medals are given to the top three runners based on gender and age groups.

While it’s a nice incentive, the race’s purpose is to raise donations for Jacksonville’s Police Athletic League.

Jacksonville Sheriff T.K. Waters hopes to raise at least $20,000 which will go toward after-school programs, like sports and tutoring for JaxPAL kids.

“This is just another way to help us continue to fund those events and fund those things that we do there,” Waters said.

This event goes far beyond just raising money.

Sheriff Waters said it’s also an opportunity to bridge relationships between the Jacksonville Sheriff’s office and the local community.

“It’s really good for us to interact on a level, that’s not just answering calls for service, which is wonderful. So, the young people really get a chance to know us as people, know us as parents, know us as children, know us as our brothers and sisters. So, it is really good for us,” Waters said.

Racing to make a difference, one step at a time.