Submitted by Whatcom Dispute Resolution Center
On September 13, 2015, at 3:30 p.m., 164 participants took off to the burst of an air horn in the 2nd Annual Wander to Wander 1K – a .62 mile “wander or sprint” from Johnny’s Donuts to Wander Brewery during Bellingham Beer Week. This event is the first of its kind in a town renowned for endurance races. All of the $3,200 proceeds benefit an equally unique nonprofit; the Whatcom Dispute Resolution Center and their mission to provide and promote collaborative and constructive approaches to conflict through mediation, training, facilitation, and community education.
First to jump across the finish line, with an astonishing time of less than 4 minutes, was Charlie from Klicks Running & Walking. Charlie had a commanding lead on racers trailing him at a wide range of paces – from lightning speed to a relaxed wander. At Charlie’s heels was Meghan Manaois. In a last-minute finish line shake-up, Charlie’s jump across the finish line allowed Meghan Manaois to come from behind and edge him out to win the Wander to Wander 1K. Individuals and teams celebrated their feat with a pint of beer or root beer at the Wander Brew Hall, proudly wearing finisher medals. Racers came together in a ceremony to bestow Meghan with a single, 23” tall golden letter “K” trophy.
Colleen Kuehl, co-owner of Wander Brewing stated, “The services provided by the WDRC undoubtedly help strengthen our local community. The WDRC is unique in how they approach dispute resolution and we are excited to have partnered with them for the 2nd Annual Wander to Wander 1K. The event is an excellent tool for both fund-raising and also strengthening awareness of the services that the WDRC provides.”
The WDRC would like to thank Wander Brewing, Chazzzzam Signs & Graphics, Overhead Door, Pacific Surveying & Engineering, and Johnny’s Donuts for sponsoring and hosting this successful event, and to all of the returning and new participants this year. WDRC Executive Director, Moonwater stated, “This event was a fantastic way for families and friends to participate in a Bellingham Beer Week and raise money for such a good cause at the same time. We were thrilled with the turnout look forward to this event growing even more next year!”
Watch for a short film of the event made by Current Media and funded by a City of Bellingham Tourism Grant. Coming soon!
