Goodrich- It’s been more than 18 months since a car accident claimed the life of high school track star Kayla O’Mara, but she is still present in our community.
The 16-year-old Goodrich High School junior was killed in a car accident on the evening of Jan. 24, 2006. The crash also injured twin sister Kaitlin and friend, Danielle Bila. Kayla’s legacy, however, lives on, not only in the hearts and minds of those who loved her, but also through a scholarship fund and memorial road race in her name.
‘We do this to remember and honor Kayla’s life,? said Kayla’s father, Dennis O’Mara. ‘For the people who knew Kayla, it helps to have one day to honor and celebrate her life.?
As a celebration of life and tribute to the young athlete? the first Kayla O’Mara Memorial Road Race had more than 900 participants on Aug. 5, 2006. This year, 5K events are slated to start at 9 a.m.with a one mile fun run and walk at 9:45 a.m. on Aug. 4 at Goodrich High School, 8029 S. Gale Road.
O’Mara said he sees the event as being a positive one for the entire community, with race proceeds going to the scholarship fund.
This year, 12 students received a total of $7,500 in scholarships from the fund, including Bila and Kelsey Meyers from Goodrich High School, said O’Mara.
O’Mara said when selecting scholarship recipients, a committee evaluated eligible candidates who ran cross country track in high school based on those values which Kayla exemplified, including: academic success; a passion for running and dedication to teammates. Additionally, it was requested that, because Kayla felt strongly that student athletes should not use alcohol or drugs, candidates should also have refrained from using those substances in high school.
‘All of the applicants were fantastic. I really am impressed. This is the second year in a row we’ve seen such quality applicants from around the state of Michigan,? said O’Mara.
Early registration for the race is $18 for the 5K, $10 for the fun run and ends July 20. This is a chipped race and all early pre-registered entrants will receive a T-shirt, with custom memorial medals awarded to all 5K participants.
Entry forms and details are available at www.KaylaRun.com.