Photo Finish for the Meyers in EAF's Second Annual Strides for Hope 5K Walk/Run

Eleanor Meyer and Justus Meyer crossing the finish line in the second annual EAF Strides for Hope 5K. Photo by Alden Corrigan Media

Wellington, Fla. — Feb. 23, 2023 — In a photo finish, Eleanor and Justus Meyer topped a field of nearly 300 participants to win the Equestrian Aid Foundation's second annual Strides for Hope 5K Walk/Run. The event, held on President's Day at Wellington's Village Park, netted over $60,000 for the foundation's mission of helping horse people who are coping with medical crises and other unforeseen catastrophes.

 

Louise Riggio (left) and Linda Andrisani (right) at the finish line of the MeadowView Kids Dash. Photo by Alden Corrigan Media

"We are absolutely thrilled with the evolution of this event," said EAF board member Louise Riggio. “From participants to sponsors to spectators, it's growing into a community affair for every generation—equestrians and runners alike.” Riggio’s MeadowView was also the sponsor of the day’s inaugural Kids Dash, which drew over 20 children to the starting line.

 

Team Beacon Hill at the second annual EAF Strides for Hope 5K Walk/Run. Photo by Alden Corrigan Media

Equestrians also participated in team challenges to raise dollars and friends for the foundation's mission. Team Beacon Hill Show Stables handily topped the Friend-raising Challenge, bringing over 30 members to the race. EAF co-founders Robert Ross and Robert Dover showed their enduring commitment to the mission by forming the team that won the Fundraising Challenge. Together, they raised $6,850 for equestrians in crisis.

In addition to the 393 in-person and virtual race registrants, the race was well attended by equestrians who cheered the runners on from the sidelines. “While it’s certainly a change of venue for a day, this event shows the essence of our community and our mission," said EAF board member R. Scot Evans. “We show up for each other and we get each other across the finish line—and when we can, we have a heck of a good time doing it.” Full race results are available here.

 

Clockwise from left: Ava Barnes and Lilly Herzog (photo by Suzy Drasnin); Jamie Taylor and daughters (photo by Alden Corrigan Media); Daniel Gnecco and Julian Davis (photo by Alden Corrigan Media); Bobbie Reber, Linda Andrisani, Michael Taylor and R. Scot Evans (photo by Alden Corrigan Media); Eloise Eisner, Ellie Sadrian, Olivia Sweetnam and friends at the starting line (photo by Suzy Drasnin); Kids Dash participants (photo by Alden Corrigan Media)