Celebrate Westlake’s 25th is a Hit!

“Let’s keep this thing going!” That was the word from Celebrate Westlake founder Bud Hagy after the 25th annual 5-Mile Run and community celebration took place under sunny skies at St. John Medical Center the morning of Sept. 5.

Over 800 runners, walkers and kids fun run participants took part in the event again this year. Since it’s inception in 1990, Celebrate Westlake has raised over $1.7 million in funds for community causes like DARE, Porter Public Library, Meals on Wheels and Youth Challenge.

: Duncan Kwemboi crosses the finish line of the Celebrate Westlake 5 Mile Run, setting a new course record of 24:04, averaging 4:48 per mile, beating the course record set last year by 37 seconds.

: Monicah Ngige won the female open 5 Mile Run title at Celebrate Westlake, clocking 27:00.

: Westlake Mayor Dennis Clough led the way in the 5K walk.

Just as importantly, Celebrate Westlake has planted the seeds of wellness in many participants, offering a physical fitness goal that has lasted a lifetime for some.

: A family affair.

“I just wanted to thank you,” said one runner as he approached Hagy after this year’s race. “I ran in the very first Celebrate Westlake. But I had some health issues the last couple of years. This year’s race gave me a goal to shoot for. So I just wanted to say, ‘thank you.’