Gateway to Yosemite 5k/10k Race Raises $4,500 for Kiddieland, Merced

The inaugural Gateway to Yosemite 5k/10k, held Nov. 19, proved successful as community members rallied together in support of improvements to Kiddieland at Applegate Park in Merced. Organized by Merced County Office of Education, City of Merced Parks and Community Services and Cultiva La Salud, the race generated nearly $4500 to enhance the local landmark.

The race began and ended on Main Street in front of Bob Hart Square.

With a total of 130 participants, including 93 in the 5k and 37 in the 10k, the race spanned through Downtown Merced, portions of Applegate Park and the Bear Creek Bike Path.

Top three finishers for the 5k Men Runners:

Brandon LiWang, 17
Zak Ellison, 33
Mike Boyer, 55

Top three finishers for the 5k Women Runners:

Emma Mercado, 11
Claudette Lee, 65
Fritzi Martinez, 21

Top three finishers for the 10k Men Runners:

Ted Schelby, 45
Edwin Gibb, 33
AJ Heard, 20

Top three finishers for the 10k Women Runners:

Leah St. Pierre, 36
Quan Mendez, 52
Annemarie Hendrickson, 45

Funds raised are allocated to enhancements for Kiddieland at Applegate Park, a staple in Merced for many families. Improvements will ensure children and families continue to enjoy Kiddieland for generations to come.

Thank you, Dignity Healthy for your support and Golden Valley Health Centers, who provided hydration stations for runners.