Airport Run Supports Benefit Flights
ORLANDO, Fla. — The sky was clear, the sunrise golden and the runways at Orlando Executive Airport (ORL) were a hive of activity. There were even some aircraft. For a short time on Saturday morning, the airfield at ORL was filled with runners and walkers participating in the Runway 5K – Run for the Angels.
The unique opportunity was the 12th annual fundraiser for Angel Flight Southeast, a non-profit volunteer pilot organization involved in public benefit flying. ORL served as the host site, fulfilling a Community Strategic Priority to broaden the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority’s presence and contributions within our communities.
This year’s race attracted 560 registered runners, the second highest number in the history of the event. For 343 of the participants, it was at least their second run during the last six years and is a favorite for many. The impressive turnout helped to raise $15,190 for Angel Flight.
The overall winner was 16-year-old William Hernandez with a time of 15:46. The top finishing woman was 57-year-old Landthis Szabelski with a time of 22:30. Medals were awarded to 1st, 2nd, 3rd in each age range, fastest male and female overall, and fastest male and female over 40 (masters winners).
The event received a boost from community partners, including the Loyal Wingman, Middlesex and C&S Companies, which helped with mapping and marking the 5K route among other things.
The 5K also included a static display where competitors and guests could get close-up looks at multiple types of aircraft, including jets, piston-powered planes and helicopters. Angel Flight provides various services to the community but mostly arranges free air transportation by private aircraft to distant medical facilities when commercial services are not available, impractical, or simply not affordable. The nonprofit also helps with disaster relief assistance and many other humanitarian flights.