Despite a low turnout, the inaugural Holiday Basket 5K Fun Run/Walk was deemed a big success by the organizer, Post Commander Dennis Fitzgerald of East Liberty County American Legion Post 321.

Fortunately, the group still generated plenty of money for Operation Holiday Basket to help numerous families for Thanksgiving.

Everyone who participated managed to complete the run/walk, which was held Nov. 3 in Midway. The fastest time was 18:36.

Event Co-Chairmen Jeff Bowen and Darryl Woodard said that holding their first 5K run/walk was a learning experience. The event was held on the same day as the Savannah Rock ’n’ Roll Marathon, but Fitzgerald said they anticipate a higher turnout next year.

“Next year, the Rock ’n’ Roll events will be held the second Saturday of November,” he said. “We are planning to host the second Holiday Basket 5K Fun Run/Walk on the first Saturday of November. Many runners will be able to use the Midway run as a warm-up,” he said.

Fitzgerald said T-shirts still are available for $5 each.

For more information on Operation Holiday Basket, call 912-980-5204 or email eastlibertyampost321@gmail.com.