First Reindeer Dash benefits On River Time

Forecasted rain held off on Dec. 23 for the first annual Reindeer Dash, hosted by Pure Fitness on Montgomery Highway.

Runners took to the neighborhood streets near Pizitz Middle School at 8 a.m. for a two-mile run, which Pure Fitness owner Erin Holtz said she designed so everyone would be able to do the run. 

About 70 people — dressed in their best holiday spirit wear — registered for the inaugural race and Santa was available for photos before the event. Holtz said she based the idea from a race she and her family did in Mobile and planned it so families would be able to spend time together during her holiday season while doing something active. 

And, the event benefitted On River Time, an organization that works to empower children of abuse and neglect through the sport fly fishing. 

In the next year, Holtz said she would like to expand the run to include a 5k race in addition to the two-mile fun run.