DOVER — More than 600 participants braved sub-freezing temperatures Saturday to participate in Delaware Tech Community College’s 4th annual Chocolate Lovers 5K Run/Walk.
“It’s a really fun event,” said Del Tech spokesman John Painter. “Everyone seemed to handle it well. I think people understand it’s February and cold weather is normal during this time of year.
“But that doesn’t stop them from coming out and having a great time,” he added.
The family-friendly event started with a Kiddie K, followed by the 5K run.
Garzell Hall, a student at Del-Tech majoring in culinary arts, participated in the race for the first time.
“It wasn’t too bad,” Mr. Hall said. “It was really nice jogging and running with these people.
“I found myself a running buddy, which really kept me occupied. The weather didn’t bother me as much. You just have to dress for the weather and keep moving.”
Proceeds from the event will benefit the college’s international education program, including its study abroad and Global Understanding series.
Chef Ed Hennessy, department chairman of Del Tech’s culinary program said it’s a great opportunity for everyone.
“It’s great to have a fund raiser that’s open to the community,” Mr. Hennessy said. “It’s helpful to raise funds for not only our students, but for all the campus international study abroad as well.”
Mr. Hennessy and a dozen students will travel to Sorrento, Italy from May 23 to June 2.
Brittany Snyder, who graduates in May in Culinary Arts, will be one of the students traveling to Italy this summer.
“I’m very excited,” Ms. Snyder said. “We get to experience how they run their restaurants. We spend a few a days in different restaurants and experience how they cook their foods. It’s totally different from American Italian Cuisine.”
After the run was finished participants and their families were treated to homemade hot chocolate and a decadent spread of home-baked chocolate treats created by the campus’ culinary arts program.
The spread included homemade marshmallows, a rice crispy chocolate chip treat, fresh fruit and baked lady-finger cookies.
There was also hot chocolate for the runners and families when they finished.
Javiah Prince, a sophomore majoring in culinary arts, helped prepared the spread for the first time.
“It’s fun,” Ms. Prince said. “I like helping out and it’s a great learning experience. I think it’s funny that you’re exercising and then you’re coming in to eat a lot of chocolate.”
It was the second time that friends Debbie Rementer and Robbin Wells participated in the event.
“I just love to run,” Ms. Rementer said. “This event is for a good cause. The after party is all about the chocolate and it Valentine’s Day weekend.
“The students worked very hard to put on a nice after party for us. They prepared a great chocolate spread and it’s like you’re supporting their efforts as well.”
Ms. Wells shared the same sentiment.
“If you love to run and love to be a supporter of different causes this is the best thing that you can do,” Ms. Wells said. “It keeps you healthy and your heart happy.”