The Brave Race is a unique community event that brings people of all ages together to run in honor of loved ones, raise awareness for important causes and celebrate the strength and resilience of the human spirit.
This year marked the eighth annual event and was held at Aliso Niguel High School’s campus for the first time, allowing for an increased number of wolverines who participated in the event. People of all ages and abilities are welcome to participate in the Brave Race, which makes it special.
The path of the race followed with the start line from the ANHS track field, all the way around the trail and back at the field for the finish line.
With the option to run a 1K, 5K or 10K, participants can make the event accessible to all skill levels, from young children to elite athletes.
The 1K race is specifically made for people who might be new to running or for families with small children who wish to spend quality time together doing something enjoyable. The 1K also provides a better option for those who are unable to run or simply wish to complete the race by walking and spending time with their friends and families.
For more seasoned runners, the 5K and 10K races provide a challenge while prioritizing community spirit over competition.
All three races welcomed a wide range from beginners to skilled runners who came in prepared and ready to run. The participants of the race included both locals and non-locals who traveled from different cities in order to complete this race.
In addition to the event itself, what sets the Brave Race apart from other races is the sense of community it fosters. People of all ages, backgrounds and abilities gather not just to run, but to support each other.
The Brave Race supports “The Joyful Child Foundation” and “ In Memory of Samantha Runnion”. It is dedicated to the prevention of crimes against children through programs that educate, empower and unite families and communities.”
Participants all concur that, although they are competing for diverse reasons, they are all a part of something far greater than themselves.
Community service and different clubs and programs throughout the Aliso campus, similar to the National Honors Society, welcomed volunteers who could earn service hours by either participating in the race, or helping with the event.
Volunteers were given the opportunity to set up the needed props for the race or to cheer for the runners and participants of the race.
Wolverine volunteer, Lily Hoang said, “I think it was a really good event to volunteer at and I had a great time cheering and helping with the event.”
The race has become a symbol of collective healing, a space where people can come together to share stories, offer encouragement and move forward as a united community while having fun and spending time with their loved ones.
