Rockford Fire Department Raises Money with Annual 3K Run – MyStateline.com

    Typically, people have a love-hate relationship with running and working out.

    But for one octogenarian couple who took part in today’s 3K race for area firefighters. They are running together well into their 80’s.

    Norman Yarter who placed first in the Men 80 and up category says he just began running in his adult years. “I started running when I was 40 and so I’ve been going 40 years at it. It’s what I do, it’s what’s fun.” Said Yarter.

    Norman and his wife Joyce Yarter both finished in 1st place for their age groups during Rockford Fire’s  911 3K  Run run on Saturday, however this isn’t Norman’s first run around the block.

    “I’ve done at least 110 of the ultra marathons, the distance is longer than a marathon.” Said Norman
    Joyce’s advice for runners is also the same for maintaining her 55 year marriage to Norman.

    “Just to keep going. Just to do it. And it’s fun, it gives you a goal to work for. Something to keep you going.” Said Joyce who placed 1st for Women 75-79 years old.

    Other runners came support their fellow first responders, like Win-Bur-Sew’s Deputy Fire Chief Scott Nailor, who ran the entire race in full [fire fighter] uniform.

    “With the gear, it’s approximately 70 pounds, between the turnout gear, the boots, their airpack and the helmet.” Explained Nailor.

    He says the weight of the equipment is nothing compared to the work they do every day.

    “I ran in my full uniform to bring awareness to first responders and 911 dispatchers. It’s their race. Just to bring awareness to everything that have to go through on a daily basis.” Said Nailor.

    With a record 400 athletes in this race, up from 300 in 2018, the thousands of dollars raised will help the fire department continue serving the Forest City.

    “The funds raised today go directly to provide assistance to members in our community, whether they need smoke alarms, CO2 alarms, any of type of assistance that might be identified when we’re out responding to calls.” Said Rockford Fire Chief Derek Bergstrom.

    A 3K is just a little under 2 miles. Both Norman and his wife Joyce finished the race in about 25 minutes.

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