Community Event | By Jocklyn Mundy
The 22nd annual Windermere Run Among The Lakes attracted over a thousand participants, bringing together athletes, families, and community members for a morning of fitness and fun. The event featured three different races: a Competitive 10K, a 5K Run/Walk, and a Kids Run. The success of the Windermere Run Among the Lakes is attributed to the town's dedicated all-volunteer Parks & Recreation Committee. This passionate and committed group of residents is headed by Chair Dena O'Malley and Vice Chair Sue Ann Reichard, whose inspiring leadership, energy, and commitment have played a crucial role in the event's success. The other committee members are Secretary Tracy McLaughlin, Jill Ata, Stephen Dimino, Jeanne Marie Olache, Christine Samek-Yonge, and Kelley Duell. Chair Dena O’Malley explains, "Our committee is entirely volunteer-based. Every single dollar raised goes back into our parks. This commitment to the town makes the race so special—it’s truly a labor of love for our volunteers.”
A Strong Community Spirit
One of the standout aspects of the Windermere Run Among The Lakes is the sense of community that the event fosters, from local businesses sponsoring the event to volunteers from the area coming together to help with race logistics. Many participants return year after year, and for some families, the race has become a beloved annual tradition.
This year, the event drew nearly 1,300 participants. 770 ran the 5K, 480 ran the 10K, and 680 came from the West Orange area. Sue Ann Reichard shares, “We had runners from Brazil, Germany, the UK, the Netherlands, Norway, and Puerto Rico. We had a great turnout to support the runners, it felt like a town-wide celebration.”
A Shared Purpose
Beyond the physical challenge, the run serves a greater purpose: supporting the Windermere Parks and Recreation Department. Proceeds from the event will be used to fund the Centennial Walkway project, which will transform a popular walking path in Central Park. The project will create a multi-generational space for residents and visitors to enjoy for years to come. The path, which has fallen into disrepair, will be rebuilt with a soft, durable material and will be adorned with centennial-themed logos and markers.
The Role of Sponsors
The success of this event would not be possible without the support of local sponsors. This year, numerous businesses contributed financially and provided resources for the race. Their involvement helped cover operational costs and maximize the amount raised. Windermere’s business community was in full force, from large corporations to small, family-run shops.
Sponsoring the Windermere Run Among the Lakes was a rewarding opportunity to give back to our community while promoting health and wellness. It was fulfilling to see our support bring together runners and families for a morning of fitness, fun, and community spirit—all while raising funds for the Park and Recreation Department.
— Terald Shaw • Financial Advisor Thrivent
The Legacy Continues
In the words of a participant, “It’s more than just a race; it’s a celebration of what makes Windermere special.” With the town's continued support, sponsors, and participants, the future of the Windermere Run Among The Lakes continues to be a huge success. Whether you're a seasoned runner or simply a fan of great community gatherings, the Windermere Run Among The Lakes is an event not to be missed.
Highlights from the 22nd Annual Windermere Run Among the Lakes
Run Among The Lakes Results
All participants received a commemorative Windermere Brewery medal, and awards were given to the top three overall male and female, male masters and female masters. A free kids run rounded out the morning’s events.
10K Overall Winners:
Fredison Costa from Kissimmee 34:28
Kelly Harris from Winter Garden 40:50
5K Overall Winners:
Chris White from Granger, Indiana 18:38
Alison Chinn from Clermont 20:32
5K Overall Masters Female:
Denisse Kindl
Youngest 10K:
Collette Bookhardt (age 9) ran the 10K!
Oldest Finisher:
Eric Graham (89) from Palm Street- Windermere, accompanied by his wife, Jeanne Graham (84)
