Runners, walkers, and canines  were out in force despite the downpour on Saturday for the 5th anniversary of Ryley’s Run on Saturday June 12th.  Despite the rains, they came and endured the rain and the wind.
Early morning set up looked like the showers may hold off but as we drew closer to the start of the run, it was not to be. First a sprinkle, and then as they took off, the rains came.  And down it came. But runners and walkers stayed focus along with their canine companions and  even though it was raining, there were several canines who decided to stop along the way and take a dive in the kiddie pools.
This year was extra special because we started something new this year in the virtual walker event.  We had people from all across the country including Ireland and the UK register as virtual walkers and we could not be happier.  We had many registrants run and walk with pledges.  Children who registered had gone around their neighborhoods to collect money for the dogs.  They did a great job. 
Our Honorary Grand Marshal Bentley proudly came in his little red wagon and was presented with his vest and wore it proudly.  Our Dog of Honor Lucy was given her vest as well but stood on the sidelines  cheering with her dad as her mom Sandy Reiser ran the 5k
Once again, at the finish of the run, we had four time champion Matt Fryer cross the finish line first. Could not have asked for a better winner for our 5th anniversary.   Bridget Van Zutphen and her dog Crystal once again took the honors for the second year in a row and Crystal was Top Dog.
People who came out on the 12th came out for one reason.  This was about the dogs. It was about abused and abandoned dogs and dogs needing our help.  With rescue groups at the run, people could walk around even in the rain, and learn about what the local rescues are doing to help dogs who are in desperate need of our help.  This is why we do what we do.  The weather was dark and gloomy but the spirit of everyone was bright and  sparkling.   
We need to seriously thank not only all the rescue groups who came out but we need to take time to thank the many vendors who came out.  What we all need to realize is that these folks give up their days off to come out and participate in these events.  So when they are out there helping our cause, we always ask that everyone stop by and visit them. They have made the decision to no longer stand on the sideline but be on the field doing whatever they can to help.
Pets Spas  Of America and Tracy Muscatello have been a part of Ryley’s Run since the second year.  We could not ask for a better partner. Tracy has seen our ups and downs and watched us grow. She gives up a day off and her staff gives up their time as well to come out and be with us and we appreciate that more than we can say.  The same holds true for Pets Supplies Plus and Blue Buffalo.  PSP has been with Ryley’s Run since the onset  and the goody bags everyone was walking around with, was provided by Pets Supplies Plus. New this year we have Greg Mandel from Blue Buffalo who did a great job for us and we also look forward to a long lasting bond with Blue Buffalo.  Top Dog Fence is another sponsor we wish to thank  who joined us when we did the Bark B Q for Rescue and we are just thrilled at our partnership and look forward to a long relationship with them. There are more vendors who came out that we wish to thank and hope they will continue each and every year to come back and support Ryley’s Run.   Without them, none of this would be possible.
One of the nicest things we saw this year, were the number of children who participated.  Children are the future of rescue and if rescue is to survive, then we need these kids who gave up their Saturday and came out to help a good cause. And if this is any sign of things to come?? Then rescue looks to be in good hands down the road.  In order to stem the tide of abuse and abandonment we MUST make a concerted effort to leave our children the tools, knowledge, and attitude that saving these "cast-off" dogs is paramount. Rescue can be a fun and rewarding way of life
We cannot thank you all enough for coming out despite the weather and supporting a cause that is truly close to everyone’s hearts.  With the economy the way it is, more and more dogs are being abandoned or surrendered to shelters.  It is going to get worse before it gets better.  The dogs need our help as well as yours.  We cannot give up.  But more importantly we need to all work together to try and end the abuse and abandonment.  After all, ITS ALL ABOUT THE DOGS
Mark your calendars for next year.  Saturday June 18th 2011.  Look for many new changes and new events at the run. Many, many new surprises as well.   So come back to the website or visit us on Facebook for updates and information.  Stay tuned and see you next year. You will not be disappointed.   BE THERE!