El Cajon hosts sixth annual St. Patrick’s Day Half Marathon

Downtown El Cajon turned green on Sunday, Mar. 4, for the sixth annual St. Patrick’s Day Half Marathon races. Besides the USATF certified marquee contest, the morning events also featured a popular 5K Walk/Run. Shortest of the courses was the “Green Mile” Fun Run.

Downtown El Cajon turned green on Sunday, Mar. 4, for the sixth annual St. Patrick’s Day Half Marathon races. Besides the USATF certified marquee contest, the morning events also featured a popular 5K Walk/Run. Shortest of the courses was the “Green Mile” Fun Run.

The early morning, with cool, rain-washed air, contributed to fast-paced and comfortable races. The winning time for the first-place finisher, Trenton Sikute, 17, was 1:23:33. Later runners began crossing the finish line more than four minutes afterward. Sikute hails from Valhalla High School.

The Run East County Foundation helped stage the races to benefit East County charities, including St. Madeleine Sophie’s Center and Partnerships With Industry. Both charitable groups offer services and to adults and youth with developmental disabilities, for skills and work training, as well as job placement assistance.

The day’s events concluded with a family-friendly Finish Line Festival held at the Downtown Café, featuring Irish music, food, and beer. Wares from street vendors emphasized active living and healthy products. A costume contest for best Irish-themed garb awarded prizes to one individual and to one group.

The Run East County Foundation can be reached by phone at (619) 444-5352. More information about the St. Patrick’s Day Half Marathon events can be found online at stpatricksdayhalf.com.