In its second year, the 2011 Blazer Race was held on Saturday, September 10. The 5k run and 2-mile walk course began just outside the parking lot of Bethlehem Lutheran School’s north campus in Germantown (N108 W14290 Bel Aire Lane), and wound its way through Kinderberg Park and the nearby neighborhood before returning back to the school.

Race day couldn’t have been more beautiful. There were about 60 participants who registered the morning of the race. In total, approximately 190 runners/walkers turned out to support the Germantown Fire Department and Bethlehem Lutheran School, raising nearly $2,300.

With National Fire Prevention Week quickly approaching, the fire department plans to use the dollars toward public education in the community. Bethlehem’s portion of the proceeds benefits their school’s education fund which provides tuition assistance, teacher training opportunities, and maintains the technology needs of the students.

Tim Janick, 48, of Brookfield crossed the finish line first with a time of 21:02. A couple minutes later the top female runner, Ashley Scherf, 12, of Wales, completed her 5k in 23:30.

Sponsorships dollars from Jeff Zarder of First Weber, Aldo’s Pizza, Pub and Catering, Greg Mustapich, Dr. John Juern, Ninski Bros., Ryan Barbieri from Willis, and Brian Cooper of Thrivent Financial for Lutherans’ were greatly appreciated. Donations from Pick ‘n Save, Team Oasis Running Club, and Sky High Marketing assisted with keeping the expenses down.

The Blazer Race planning committee, made up of members of Bethlehem Lutheran Church, is already making plans for 2012.  Stay tuned to blazerrace.com for more details.