Yokota Striders Running Club hosts 29th Annual Frostbite Run

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Lynsie Lorenz
  • 374th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
Yokota Striders Running Club hosted the 29th Annual Frostbite Run here Jan. 17 with more than 9,000 participants from all over the world.

Participants of the race chose different events to compete in, including a 2K children's race, a 5K and a half marathon.

"This is a great opportunity to share with our community," said Col. Mark Hicks, 374th Airlift Wing commander.

He also commented on how seeing so many Yokota members volunteer their time and their weekends to help make the run a success really speaks of service and tradition.

"This event serves as a bonding experience for Japanese and American runners," said Jeffrey Dickerhoof, Yokota Striders Running Club president. "They can meet one another and compete against each other in a friendly race."

A lot of planning goes into an event like the Frostbite Run.

"You're constantly trying to get things done and make sure that everything is running smoothly," added Mr. Dickerhoof.

The Yokota Striders Running Club is a community running group that is open to anybody interested in a range of activities ranging from walking to performing in iron man decathlons.

"It's a way to be able to take people out and see Japan," said Mr. Dickerhoof. "We go all over the place to enjoy running on the weekends."

The Yokota Striders Running Club raises money from events like the Frostbite Run to help fund their running trips and to pay for the planning that goes into other major events.

With the money raised from these events, the Yokota Striders Running Club is able to donate almost $100,000 per year to charity. This year, the Frostbite Run made it possible for them to donate $40,000 to the local community.

"This event helps to reinforce the great relationship between the Japanese nationals and Yokota," said Col. Hicks.