ROCK SPRINGS – Local athletes did their part to help prevent child abuse. The father-son team of John Grossnickle, Ryne Grossnickle and Drew Grossnickle ran in the 2015 Chicago Quarter Marathon April 5. Money raised during the event went to the Prevent Child Abuse America organization.
Over 850 people participated in the event. Drew Grossnickle was 2nd in his age group, and 117th overall, running the race in 56:47. John Grossnickle was 18th in his age group, and 203rd overall, running the race in 1:00:29. Ryne Grossnickle was 4th in his age group, and 224 overall, running the race in 1:01:09.
The marathon began outside Soldier Field. Runners and walkers traveled along the Lake Michigan shoreline before looping back to the stadium’s shadow where a post-race party greeted participants with snacks, awards and live music.
Prevent Child Abuse American, founded in 1972 in Chicago, works to ensure the healthy development of children nationwide. The organization promotes that vision through a network of chapters in 50 states and over 500 Healthy Families America home visitation sites in 41 states, all the territories, Puerto Rico and Canada. A major organizational focus is to advocate for the existence of a national policy framework and strategy for children and families while promoting evidence-based practices that prevent abuse and neglect from ever occurring.
The Chicago Quarter Marathon is an annual event.
