by Steve Mandurano
The second annual Tails on Trails 5K Run/Walk brought runners, walkers and four-legged participants together at Cacapon Resort State Park on Saturday, September 12, for a morning of fitness, community and support for local shelter animals.
This year’s event welcomed 123 total participants, including nearly 70 walkers, approximately 50 runners, 32 pups and a handful of virtual participants supporting the event from afar. Participants took on the park’s official high school cross-country course, while spectators and volunteers cheered them across the finish line.
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Together, participants, sponsors and donors raised more than $13,000 for the Humane Society of Morgan County. The funds will help provide food, shelter and medical care for animals in need throughout the community. As a nonprofit, no-kill shelter that receives no federal, state or local government funding, the Humane Society depends on community support to continue its work.
“Our 5K is our newest event, bringing people of all ages together to support local animals and learn more about the Shelter’s vital work,” said Steven Mandurano, race director and vice president of the Humane Society’s Board of Directors. “Community support is essential because we receive no federal, state or local funding.”
Nearly 40 volunteers helped make the event possible by assisting with registration, parking, course guidance, water stations, refreshments, setup and cleanup. The event also featured a memorial wall where participants could honor beloved pets who had passed, adding a meaningful reminder of the special place animals hold in our lives.
The Humane Society of Morgan County extends its sincere appreciation to every participant, volunteer, sponsor, donor and community partner who contributed to the success of this year’s event. Their generosity made the second annual Tails on Trails 5K the most successful yet, and demonstrated what can happen when a community comes together for animals in need.
Plans have already begun for the Third Annual Tails on Trails 5K Run/Walk for September 2027.
