Boone Memorial Health’s Inaugural 5K Engaged Nearly 120 Participants in New Annual Community Wellness Initiative
Nearly 120 runners and walkers laced up their shoes Saturday for the inaugural Farm to Finish 5K Run & Walk, hosted by Boone Memorial Health (BMH) at its Market on Main facility in downtown Madison. The free community event welcomed participants of all ages who joined together to support the BMH Foundation for Community Health and its efforts to promote wellness and local entrepreneurship through Market on Main.
“The Farm to Finish 5K illustrated our commitment to bringing people together to focus on health, well being, and community,” said Virgil Underwood, President and CEO of Boone Memorial Health. “It’s another example of how we’re working to create meaningful experiences that promote healthier lifestyles and stronger connections across our region.”
The event featured a 5K run and walk, complimentary T-shirts, and a post-race celebration complete with a breakfast buffet and DJ music. Participation, food, and festivities were completely free to all attendees. Optional donations were accepted to benefit the BMH Foundation in support of Market on Main.
Following the race, top finishers received medals during a post-race ceremony, recognizing performances across multiple age categories. The top three finishers were Jalynn Browning (Danville), Thaddaeus Ford (Jeffrey), and Fred Jones (Madison), placing overall first, second, and third, respectively. Full race results are available at: tristateracer.com/race-results/view/13127.
Deanna Howell, Market on Main Director, emphasized how the event reflected Market on Main’s growing role in the community. “Market on Main is more than a market. It’s a place where health, local food, and community meet,” Howell said. “Events like this reinforce our commitment to encouraging physical activity and fostering community engagement in southern West Virginia.”
Planning and coordination for the 5K were led by Leigha Fleming, BMH Financial Planning & Analysis Manager, whose efforts resulted in a well-organized and enjoyable experience for all participants.
“As a runner and fitness advocate, I wanted to help create an event that inspires others to get moving and connect with our community,” said Fleming. “Seeing our community come together in such a positive way was incredibly rewarding, and we look forward to holding the event again next year.”
Proceeds from the event will support the BMH Foundation’s ongoing efforts to advance health and wellness initiatives at Market on Main, including programs that promote access to healthy foods and community-based entrepreneurship.
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