by Mikayln Brickley
This past Saturday, the smoke cleared and the sun came out just in time for over 400 people to gather at the Hamilton High School to participate in Robert’s Run. This event was held in remembrance of Robert A. Leonardi, the fun-loving 8-year-old boy who was killed in a hit and run two years ago.
“We want to make Robert’s Run an activity to do with your family and just to serve as a reminder that when life gets busy it’s so important to play with your kids and spend time with your family,” said Alyce Leonardi, Robert’s mother. “Time is precious and you never know how quickly things can change.”
The event included a 5k and a mile run, as well as a virtual opportunity to participate. There was a total of about 830 people who signed up and donated, with people from all over the country joining in to support such a meaningful cause.
“We were blown out of the water in terms of support,” said Alyce. “It far exceeded our expectations with the number of participants. It’s more appreciated than people know and there aren’t really any words to describe how it feels to be so loved and surrounded by other individuals in the valley who want to remember Robert.”
Robert’s Run is planned to be an annual event, so make sure to keep an eye out next summer for when it will be held. There is something so special about our small-town community, and it is events like Robert’s Run that can serve as a reminder to just stop and be grateful.
Alyce said, “when you lose a child you just don’t want people to forget.” If the turnout at this 5k proved anything last weekend, it’s that Robert A. Leonardi will never be forgotten by the people of the Bitterroot Valley.