Tiger Paws will be dashing through the hills and valleys of Potomac on Sunday morning, Sept. 23 as runners and walkers meet the challenges and enjoy the camaraderie of participating in the 8th annual Holy Child Tiger Trot.

This family and community event draws close to 500 runners and walkers every year, including the students, families and staff of Holy Child, members of the Cabin John Park Volunteer Fire Department (CJPVFD), elite runners and those who choose to stroll with a purpose. The run/walk begins on the Holy Child campus, travels through Potomac neighborhoods and ends back at the Bradley Boulevard school grounds for post-race activities.

Tiger Trot Co-Chair Maria Welsh has continued her involvement in this race for many reasons: “Now in its 8th year, the Holy Child Tiger Trot 5K has become a steadfast community building event that not only promotes health and wellness physically but also socially and mentally. It gathers both the girls and families from the school with our local runners and businesses from the Metropolitan DC area in fellowship, to empower them to be strong and healthy and also bring awareness and thanks to our emergency response teams at the Cabin John Volunteer Fire Department. Even though my daughter and one of my sister’s daughters have graduated, we continue to chair this event because we love seeing everyone working together to make it a success while also enjoying the family fun it brings.”

Welsh’s co-chair, Rosina Aguiar, said, “I love being part of an event that not only promotes health and wellness through exercise but also brings families and friends together in a fun way. Watching participants of all ages crossing the finish line, cheering on the sidelines or donating to benefit the CJPVFD truly warms my heart.”

The CJPVFD is the first to the scene when a Potomac resident requires emergency medical treatment or fire suppression services. They keep the community safe and constantly are called upon to respond quickly and efficiently. The Tiger Trot 5K is one of the most special events in our community because all proceeds remain in the Potomac community — to benefit the Connelly School of the Holy Child Health and Wellness Programs as well as the Cabin John Park Volunteer Fire Department.

Students at Holy Child enjoy participating in this fun event – but this year the school has created fun “Challenges” which pit students against their teachers.

There are bronze, silver and gold packages in both the Middle and Upper Schools. Thus, if students in the Middle School beat Mrs. Davis, Mrs. Kannapell or Mr. O’Dea, they receive a free Homework pass, lunch and a gift card. In the Upper School the prizes are for beating Mrs. Bradley, Mrs. Greene and Coach Cali; these winners receive a prize pack, a gift card – and free lunch with a “significant” gift card.

“I love participating in our annual 5k because it is a great community event that is fun for the whole family. Running and walking are not only great for you physically, but also keeps you strong mentally” said Middle School Counselor Lindsay Davis (one of the staff to beat).

The morning will begin with warm-ups and last minute registrations. Then the run/walk will begin and after, there will be music, food and a special time to mix and mingle.

Ashley Lowry, dean of academics at Holy Child said, “There is something about the atmosphere on the morning of a 5K — everyone is happy and the sense of camaraderie is strong. It’s an extra special opportunity to run alongside my students and their families since the spirit of Holy Child alive and joyful all along the course.”

All participants will receive a free race tee-shirt and there will be prizes for the top three female and male contestants. Registration is now $35 for adults, $25 for youth and $20 for children 10 and under. Registration packet pick-up is Saturday, Sept. 22 from 12-4 p.m. at the school or from 7 – 8 a.m. on the day of the race. Many local businesses are donating food, beverages and serving as sponsors.

The race is on – rain or shine. To register online or for more information, go to https://runsignup.com/Race/MD/Potomac/HolyChildTigerTrot.