SPRUCE PINE — The annual Run for Holland charity race was in full force on Saturday, Aug. 21, returning to the regular in-person format after being postponed and eventually going virtual amid the pandemic in 2020.
Run for Holland, presented by non-profit Run for Holland Foundation, raises money for Down syndrome awareness through an annual 5K and 10K race that over the years has sent hundreds of runners through Spruce Pine on a set track.
The 2021 event was no different, as runners and volunteers turned out in droves. Some spectators even watched from sidewalks and donned signs to encourage the runners.
Run for Holland aims to raise funds for the special needs community. All proceeds from the race, including donations, signup money and advertising, go directly to the special needs community.
Medals, prizes and awards are presented each year to top finishers.
Race organizer Adam Burleson and his wife began the Run for Holland Foundation several years ago after their own daughter, Holland, was diagnosed with Down syndrome. The pair were frightened at the thought and had little experience with children with disabilities.
The family’s genetic counselor coached the couple through the pregnancy after knowing that their child would be diagnosed. It was a short story called Welcome to Holland by Emily Perl Kingsley that brought the couple relief and comfort as the story perfectly portrays how they felt. This inspired them to name their daughter Holland.
Holland is the inspiration for the annual race, which now raises money and awareness for the special needs community in her name.
The runners on the 5k course ran a total of 3.21 miles to symbolize the scientific definition of Down syndrome— when the 21st chromosome has three strands, rather than two. The race began at Spruce Pine First Baptist Church.
“We want the Run for Holland idea to spread through our community like wildfire and give families and individuals the love and support they deserve,” said a statement from the Run for Holland Foundation.