Shell Deer Park raises $45K for the Education Foundation

It was a sight to behold. A virtual sea of runners and walkers – many sporting the commemorative 2011 event t-shirt, others proudly wearing attire from their Deer Park school of choice – gathered to show their support of the students and teachers of Deer Park.

The occasion was the 2nd Annual “Strides for Schools” Fun Run/Walk, in April, Shell Deer Park’s hallmark event which demonstrates education as a primary area of focus in the community.

All proceeds are donated to the Deer Park Education Foundation, a non-profit organization that funds teachers’ grants for innovative programs in the classroom.  The Fun Run was originally presented by Shell Deer Park as a gift to the community in 2009 during the company’s 80th anniversary celebration activities.

Runners giving it their all at the start...

...and at a the victorious finish

This year’s race, staged in front of Dow Park, proved to be another tremendous success – virtually doubling the participation numbers from the previous inaugural event. With close to 1000 registrants, along with generous sponsorships from neighboring Ship Channel companies, straight donations, and the site’s matching funds of the registration fees, Shell Deer Park was able to raise $44,470.

At a recent meeting of the Board of the Deer Park Education Foundation, Bill Wendes, the SLT sponsor for the event, and Candace Vaughn, the “Strides for Schools” Project Manager, presented the fun oversized check with the total donation amount.

“Everyone who came out to support our students and teachers by running, walking, volunteering or cheering on the participants made our Fun Run an incredible event,” said Sheri Brown, Deer Park Education Foundation Coordinator. “With the support of Shell Deer Park and our community, the Foundation is able to continue to fund programs that with today’s budgetary constraints would otherwise be unavailable. Special thanks to everyone who was part of this special day.”

Presenting the big check with final donation to the Deer Park Education Foundation

Wendes added a special thanks to the Fun Run Planning Committee, “They really did us proud. I’ve done so many running activities, and the execution of Shell Deer Park’s Fun Run is as good as any I’ve seen.”

Attracted a diverse crowd of participants
Perched under the red and yellow balloon arch at the front of the start line were the competitive runners. And competitive they were with the top male winner, Chris Layman, completing the 5K at a smoking 15:37 and Shell Deer Park’s own Keesha Erickson, the top female winner not far behind at 21:26. Click here to view a short video clip of the race start.

The overall winner finishes at 15:37

The race also attracted a number of recreational walkers, runners, and volunteers who came to enjoy the balmy, clear weather and the camaraderie of family, friends, neighbors and colleagues.  Added into the mix were a number of local vendors, including students from San Jacinto College Massage Therapy and the Armand Bayou Nature Center, and a recreational activity area for children.

Kicking off the event on Mark Byrd, Shell Deer Park General Manager, delivered opening remarks, along with Mayor Wayne Riddle and Deer Park Independent School District Superintendent, Dr. Arnold Adair.

Race Facts:

Funds Raised: $18,245 through race registrations + $18,245 matching gift from Shell Deer park + $7,980 through community sponsorships and donations = $44, 470
Participants: Registrations totaled 994

Race Results: Posted on the Shell Deer Park website www.shell.com/us/deerpark (click on race logo).