Racers run for safer graduation

Runners and walkers set out Saturday morning under overcast skies and chilly temperatures for the Safe and Sober 5k fundraiser at Carson High School.“It’s perfect for running,” said race co-chairwoman Rene Knorzer, while cheering on racers nearing the finish line, “but not for standing around.”Conditions were much better then when the event was originally scheduled in November. An early winter snowstorm forced postponement of the fundraiser.Saturday’s two-loop run and walk began on the high school track, meandered through the campus and finished back on the track. Cheerleaders and other supporters cheered at the finish line, coaxing runners and walkers to faster finishes.“Push it through, push it through,” shouted co-chairman and time-keeper John Dodge, helping tired runners find the strength for a last sprint.The first across the finish line with a time of 21:08 was Tylar Chester, a junior and member of high school track team.Chester received a medallion for first place in the under-18 men’s category. First place in the men’s over-18 was Matt Nolan at 21:45. The first place in the women’s under 18 was Erica Sosa at 23:41 and over-18 was Jane Brinson at 30:46.The run is the main fundraiser for the high school’s annual safe and sober graduation celebration, Safe Grad, which started in 1988. Graduates gather at the Carson City Community Center for a safe night of fun, including a casino, jump house, photo booth, swimming, rock climbing, food, raffles and more — all free to the graduates.“It’s a safe, great, fun environment for the graduates before everyone ventures off to start their lives,” Knorzer said.A minimum of $5,000 had been raised, Knorzer said, with more to be counted from the raffle proceeds. Participants paid $20 to $35 to run, although many people paid just as a donation, she said.Other fundraisers include Shares Cards, available at SaveMart stores. Customers swipe the card when making their purchases and 3 percent of that sale will go to Safe Grad.