FREDERICK, Md., At twilight on June 17, several hundred runners lined up for the 2023 Frederick Summer Solstice 8K, hosted by the Frederick Steeplechasers Running Club. With the help of race sponsors, donors, and volunteers, the race raised $19,534 for the Frederick chapter of Blessings In A Backpack. 

“In the race’s 8th year, we enjoyed heightened success, both in terms of number of participants and the funds raised for our charitable beneficiary. The town of Walkersville is always so supportive and the runners love the course and all the race amenities. The post-race celebration included live music by The Few, Flying Dog beer, and food options, extending the excitement into the evening.,” race director, Harriet Langlois, shared. “The Steeplechasers Running Club is proud to continue its support of Blessings In A Backpack, allowing us to serve both the running community and the kids of Frederick County”, she added.

After wrapping up the event and finalizing the donation amount, Langlois was recently joined Frederick Steeplechasers Running Club president, Michelle Newton to present the donation check to Blessings in a Backpack Executive Director, Angela Abrishami.

“The unwavering support from the Steeplechasers has supported Blessings mission to ensure more than 5,580 hunger-free weekends for students this school year. Their continued commitment to their community has enabled us to nourish thousands of children who might have otherwise faced hunger on the weekends throughout the school year. Blessings in a Backpack and the countless children we serve in Frederick County extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Steeplechasers for their dedication to our community”,” Abrishami said.

This year the race again took runners through a flat and fast tour of Walkersville, with the start/finish at the Walkersville Volunteer Fire Company and the turnaround loop at Heritage Farm Park. Travis Leyhe, of Frederick, won the men’s race with a time of 27 minutes, 20 seconds. The top female finisher was Erin Snyder, of Jefferson, MD, with a time of 32 minutes, 1 second. This year, both of the top runners are members of the Frederick Steeplechasers Running Club.

The Premier Sponsor of the 2023 race is Alpha Project Phyzio & Performance.

The Frederick Steeplechasers Running Club, established in 1975, holds four large-scale races each year, donating the race proceeds back to the Frederick community.

See steeplechasers.org for more information.

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Contact: communications@steeplechasers.org