Spirit Run raises $50,000 for Newport-Mesa schools

The 32nd annual Newport-Mesa Spirit Run on Sunday raised more than $50,000 for participating schools in the Newport-Mesa Unified School District.

The event at Fashion Island in Newport Beach helped promote childhood fitness with 12 foot races, a toddler trot, a 5K Family Walk and more. About 2,000 people registered, down slightly from about 2,100 last year.

Several high school clubs also raised money for causes through the Spirit Run. Corona del Mar High’s POWER (Protecting Our Women’s Educational Rights) Club raised funds for a new school in Guatemala.

“We are proud not only to present a fun event that celebrates fitness and community, but also each year to increase the number of partnerships with local community clubs and nonprofits with the collective goal of supporting youth causes,” said Diane Daruty, race director and president of Newport-Mesa Spirit Run Inc.

—Nicole Knight Shine