By Kelly Velez
For many Christians who have a passion for running, the fall season is a highly anticipated time of year. Training all year, especially through the hot summer months, is necessary for one to be adequately prepared for the fall racing season. The best part of all this preparation is that a love of running can also mean supporting some local charities.
The Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) is an international ministry that seeks to help students be ambassadors for Christ in their local schools.
“We represent four core values which are Integrity, Excellence, Serving and Teamwork,” said Keri Kellam, Eastern Hillsborough Area Representative for FCA. “Dan McClanen founded FCA in 1954. We are a non-denominational, Christ centered sports ministry. All funds raised by the event will help the Eastern Hillsborough Area FCA continue to impact our local schools for Christ. There are three part time staff and about 30 volunteers.
We are always looking to bring on new staff and volunteers.” In keeping with the sports theme of ministry, the Eastern Hillsborough Area FCA will be holding its first 5k and Family Color Fun Run on Saturday, October 10 at 9 a.m. at The Rugged Cross Youth Ranch and Rescue. The ranch is located at 10744 Walter Hunter Rd. in Lithia. Registration is $20 for the Family Fun Run, $35 for the 5k. There will be light refreshments, prizes and giveaways.
“The ranch is a beautiful place to hold events. There’s a beautiful wooded area and a meadow. They care for abandoned horses so you may have a furry friend cheer you on,” said Kellam.
To register for the 5k, visit FCAtampabay.org. For information regarding ministry staff positions, visit www.fca.org/mla. More information for the Eastern Hillsborough Area FCA can be found on their Facebook page under FCA Tampa Bay.
