Ossining MATTERS Event Nets $12,000

The totals are in for the amount of money raised during this year's Ossining MATTERS 5k Run/2 Mile Walk. Organizers say this year's event brought in more than $12,000. The money will go towards programs, projects and materials for Ossining's school children.

The event was the result of a lot of blood, sweat and tears from community members, school staff, parents and the Ossining Police Department. It took dozens of Ossining MATTERS volunteers to check in all of the people who took part in the race. The volunteers also clipped timing chips from runners' shoes, handed out T-shirts and marked the racecourse.

Organizers say this year's 10th annual event was a big success.

“What an amazing turnout. We are so very lucky to live in such a generous community, where so many people are eager to make better educational opportunities for our students a top priority,” said Ossining MATTERS President Elisabeth Gilbert.

The hard work to put together the event wasn't just centered on the actual race. Members of the Ossining Teachers' Association were hard at work serving refreshments inside the community center. Also inside the community center was a kids' festival, which included games, prizes and face painting.

Athletes from Ossining and across Westchester, ages seven to well over 70, took part in the event. Also taking part were Ossining's student athletes. Those participating included members of the cross country and swim teams. Members of Ossining's soccer, football and cheerleading teams helped marshal the event.

More than 300 runners and 200 walkers took part in the event. Kristin Vespa had the top female time of 21:59. Luis Francisco had the top male time of 19:45.