JACKSON, Wyo. — Wildfire smoke hanging in the air did not curb community enthusiasm during Old Bill’s annual fundraising event held on Saturday, Sept. 6.
On the crisp, sunny morning, competitors were eager and ready at the race’s starting line at Jackson Elementary School (JES). The competitive race began at 8:30 a.m. and the fun run began at 9 a.m. Old Bill’s Fun Run includes a 5K and 10K timed run, a timed adaptive 5K and 10K run, an untimed fun run/walk and the infant and toddler Diaper Derby.
“Winners of each race receive prize money to donate to their favorite nonprofits,” Old Bill’s wrote on its website.
The winner of the 5K crossed the finish line in just over 16 minutes. The 10K winner ran the distance in under 32 minutes. A list of all the top finishers can be found here.
Many race participants got into the spirit with festive costumes. Some walkers donned their butterfly wings and Dancer’s Workshop participants danced the course in tutus. At a refueling station along the route, children and pets could decorate themselves in colorful chalk.
Many nonprofit members joined the race in uniform, finding ways to share their unique contributions to the community. Teton County Search and Rescue transported its wheeled litter, and Horse Warriors led two horses across the start. Even Smokey Bear showed up to greet participants and pose for photos.
In addition to the races, local nonprofits set up a village of tents on the JES ball field with activities for participants. Children could wear a banana costume at Hole Food Rescue and the latest puppies at the Animal Adoption Center were available to be held and cuddled.
