Kelly LaBare 5K Run/Walk 2023

Kelly Marie LaBare was an education advocate and premiere road runner in the area who died unexpectedly of a heart condition in 1997 at age 25. Family, friends, children, and running were central to Kelly's life and the annual Kelly LaBare 5K Run & Walk celebrates each of these things.

Kelly had an innate ability to easily connect with individuals through her welcoming smile and infectious personality. She was very gracious, humble and encouraging to others. Kelly’s deep spiritual foundation was manifested in everything she did and those lives she touched. Kelly cherished her family, friends and the long talks with her best friend and brother, Byron.

Kelly’s blonde swinging ponytail, radiant energy and beautiful smile were immediately recognized at many area road races. She was among the top female road runners in the area for various distances. She was a member of the Triple Cities Runner’s Club. 

Kelly had many talents. She was very smart, with a near photographic memory. She was a tremendous athlete with a positive attitude. But what will be remembered most of all about her, was her gift of giving of these talents. She spent much of her time giving assistance and words of encouragement to friends, family members or anyone she met. It is fitting that her memory still beats strong through this event since a portion of the proceeds go to causes close to Kelly's heart: three High School Scholarship Funds and Mom's House, which offers free child care to children of single parents who are pursuing educational opportunities. Mom’s house motto is synonymous with Kelly’s life-long goals, “To Live, To Love, to Learn”.

Kelly’s love for others was only matched by the love others had toward her. She embodied joy, grace, and elegance. Kelly made a profound difference in the lives of those privileged to have known her beauty and warmth and her legacy lives on through them. We have this race today not because Kelly died but because she lived….

We have a national music lineup, meet & greets, 25 hot air balloons scheduled for 5 launches over the weekend (weather permitting), a craft show, antique car show, 5K Run/Walk, sand volleyball tournament, an awesome children's area with rides and games. There is something for the entire family!