On Mar. 25 at 9:30 a.m. on the track, the Be T.R.U.E 5K walk/run will kick-off its third annual event with the race beginning promptly at 10 a.m. The race is open for registration for kids, teens, adults and families in and outside the community and is a success every year in honoring the deceased, Sam Williams, to carry on his legacy.
This year there will be free hot dogs and snacks at the event. Gold’s Gym will hold a pre-race warm up. A Zumba class following the run and prizes like Under Armour gear, school spirit wear and a Gopro set. “There will also be a moon bounce and face painting. It’s a family-friendly event,” founder and Sam’s mother Katherine Williams said.
Sam Williams was an honor student, a fun-loving teenager, older brother, role-model, athlete and inspiration. Be T.R.U.E captures his essence. The acronym describes him as trustworthy, responsible, uplifting and enthusiastic. The 5K has enabled eight students as of last year’s run to complete a leadership program with $15,000 in funds, all pouring back into the school community. “All the businesses in the area can contact [email protected] or 301-785-0815 for a mutually beneficial involvement in the event,” Williams said.
In its early years, the Sam Williams 5K was attended by former principal Dr. Michael Doran. He thought it was paramount to be there for the family, school, and to honor Sam’s memory. Since then, Principal Kim Boldon has been a constant presence and staff can be seen behind the scenes and at the event running and supporting Sam and his family. People gather under a common motive to honor an individual who lived his values. Sam unifies the school every year through the event. The foundation works with the Wellness Program to ensure Sam’s legacy can inspire students now and in the future. “I think that it’s important to be T.R.U.E because it makes a positive impact on all those around you and it genuinely makes you a better person. If everyone follows the be T.R.U.E guidelines the world will be a much better place, and will bring out the best in everyone,” sophomore Meghan Murphy said.
The foundation seeks individuals willing to make an effort to utilize opportunities available to our students. The foundation funds select students to train and attend a leadership program at prestigious institutions such as George Mason University and American University. “All proceeds from the race are used for leadership awards at Wootton,” Cabin John PTSA representative Venkatesan Gopalaswamy said.
Rena Edery
Staff Writer
