Though the temperature outside was cold during the months of February and March, the hearts of some Quillen College of Medicine students were warm as they planned the first annual Trots for Tots 5K to benefit the new Niswonger Children’s Hospital at Johnson City Medical Center. Kathryn Shipp and Jennifer Sauceman, both fourth year medical students at Quillen College of Medicine, came up with the idea after trying to decide on a project for the medical honor society Alpha Omega Alpha, AOA. Members of AOA have to complete an annual service Project.
“In years past, the service project has consisted of blood pressure screenings at a local Wal-Mart. This year, we decided we should do a different project that melded some of our interests: kids and fitness,” Shipp said.
With only six weeks to plan the race while also making plans to graduate medical school, the two knew it wouldn’t be an easy task. They enlisted the help of other AOA members at Quillen, as well as the help of other Quillen Class of 2009 students. Dr. Rob Schoborg, a professor of microbiology at the Quillen College of Medicine, provided guidance with regard to planning the event and the course. Sauceman and Shipp received a grant from the national AOA society which helped cover most of the expenses. Sauceman and Shipp credit the team effort of Quillen students to making the race a reality.
On April 4, despite temperatures being lower than expected, a large number of people showed up to run or walk in the first annual Trots for Tots 5K. More than four times the amount anticipated, 221 people registered and completed the race. The course traversed the Veteran’s Administration campus, a challenging terrain compared to many races of similar distance. Some of the participants ran in costume, such as a cow suit, adding to the fun atmosphere of the day. Quillen students and volunteers assisted runners and walkers by handing out snacks and water.
Matt Goldman of Johnson City crossed the finish line in first place with a time of 19 minutes and 21 seconds. Mark Bunker followed closely behind, finishing in 19 minutes 32 seconds. Heather Wright finished as the fastest female with a time of 22 minutes and 41 seconds.
Overall, more than $4,000 was raised through donations and registration fees. “We are so tickled with the race’s success,” said Shipp. “Because so many people donated and participated, we are going to be able to give Child Life Services of Niswonger Children’s Hospital a bigger gift than we ever expected.

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