The Bruce A. Waite 5K celebrates seven years fighting back against mesothelioma and honoring the life of former Mansfield Senior High School teacher (1959-1989), Bruce Waite, who died of the terrible disease in 2003. The event draws crowds from all over the United States and boasts a following of Bruce’s family, friends, students, and those directly affected by the battle against this cancer. The event will happen on Sunday, September 16, 2018 at the Ontario High School, 457 Shelby Ontario Rd., with registration at 1:00 and race at 2:00 p.m. and is the only Miles for Meso race in Ohio. Walkers, runners, and cheering sections welcome!
There were over 300 people participating last year and the event has raised over $65,000 for mesothelioma research through the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation in the first 6 years. This event is to honor the life and legacy of Bruce A. Waite, and to assist in mesothelioma research to find a cure for this fatal disease.
Registration is $25 and returning runners and walkers can save $5 by using the code from last year’s candy bar wrapper. A long-sleeved Miles for Meso t-shirt is guaranteed for the first 200 registered. Awards are given for overall top male/female in each age group for this chip-timed race. The day is full of high-energy fun, food, butter-soft race shirts, unsurpassed hospitality, and everybody’s favorite emcee. There’s even a quilt raffle, available the day of the race or by contacting the Jill Waite, daughter of Bruce and race director, at [email protected]. Visit the race Facebook page for even more information.
“I am blown away by the support and success of the event,” said Jill. “I just wanted to honor my father and create an event to fight back and help others in some way as they face the monster (mesothelioma) that wreaks havoc on their lives.”
“My dad was such a humble man; I smile when I think about how he would just shake his head at all the stuff at the race with his name on it. He would be so overwhelmed at how many people show up that day and he would most love all the relationships that have been formed, rekindled, and healed. His legacy continues, and through the race, he continues to teach,” Jill continued.
Bruce was an avid runner for over 30 years, so a running/walking event was the perfect way to honor his legacy. He had a quote written on the chalkboard in his classroom. It framed his life, encouraged his students, and exemplifies why we continue to strive for success.
“The road to mediocrity is heavily traveled; the path to excellence, seldom traversed.”
– Bruce A. Waite
Come join the celebration by registering or sponsoring at www.BruceWaite5K.com. For questions, contact Jill Waite at [email protected].
