by Andree Niswander

Reporter

Hudson -- Finishing strong, the Hudson Parent Teacher Organization's inaugural "Run for the Schools" drew a crowd, for what was the final event of the 2008 Hudson Race Series.

With sunshine to spare Sept. 14, more than 100 entrants completed the one-mile fun run/walk or 5K, to benefit the PTO's school grants and scholarship program.

"We couldn't have had better weather," said PTO President Jennifer Dudinec.

PTO members chose the fall race to round out the organization's fundraising calendar, which already includes a membership drive and spring pancake breakfast, according to Dudinec.

"We wanted to do a family, community event in the fall," she said.

Although final fundraiser figures for the first "Run for the Schools" were not available at press time, according to Dudinec, "We did make money."

During the 2007-08 school year, the local PTO raised more than $100,000 for school programs, events, grants and scholarships, including $1,000 student scholarships to five graduating seniors.

"I think it's nice that, with all the cutbacks, we're able to do things ... to put money back into the schools," said Dudinec.

Sponsors for the PTO-hosted final run in the six-race series that began in May included Medical Mutual of Ohio, Primary Care Associates of Northeast Ohio, Vertical Runner, Printer's Devil Inc., Jake's Good Life, Mertes Pediatric Dentistry, LifeCenter Plus Health and Fitness, Robinson Imaging Center of Kent, and Western Reserve Racquet and Fitness Center.

Sponsors hosted a race-day health and wellness fair in front of Hudson Middle School. The event featured "DJ Ray," raffle items, giveaways and refreshments as well.

Hudson residents Bob Mau finished first overall and in the male category for the 5K, Carolyn Sauers took the blue ribbon in the female category, and Kyle Mau won the one-mile race.

With a successful first run, plans for next year's event already are underway, according to Dudinec.

"We had a lot of great feedback from the people who attended," she said.

For more information, visit www.hudsonpto.org.

E-mail: aniswander@recordpub.com

Phone: 330-686-3947