Even before Keith Pierce crossed the finish line in a blistering 15:04, Saturday’s 5th
Annual Run the Highlands 5K and 1 Mile Family Walk was a big winner.

The race and community carnival were again hosted by the Lake Highlands Junior Women’s League with proceeds benefitting Lake Highlands North Park improvements.

Hundreds of families and a record number of runners congregated at the park in front of Lake Highlands High School.

The LHJWL says more than $52,000 was raised to fund a family picnic area, a new shade structure over one of the playgrounds by Fieldcrest and new landscaping which includes a children’s maze.

LHJWL board member and race organizer Betsy McBee was pleased with the turnout.

“We’ve set goals for ourselves for the past five years and it’s been great to exceed them each year with help from the Lake Highlands community. This is a great opportunity for our group to bring families together and help our neighborhood,” she said.

More than 1,000 runners and Lake Highlands residents participated in the 5k and family walk – almost 200 more than last year.

One of those was 28 year old Keith Pierce of Krum. Pierce, who coaches Cross County at Krum High School, was a first-time participant in this year’s race and won the 5K race easily.

“It was really hilly the first part and my legs were feeling a little worn out. But I felt great coming down the home stretch and it’s always great to win,” Pierce said.

Wendy Ragle of Fort Worth was the first female finisher with a time of 18:52.

On hand to see both winners was Dallas Mayor Tom Leppert. The Mayor joined with hundreds at the community carnival and praised the Lake Highlands spirit.

“Every time I’m in Lake Highlands, I’m reminded of what a great community it is. It’s good to see second and third generations coming back here and taking pride in the neighborhood. This is what we want to see throughout Dallas,” Leppert said.

Men’s 5K top three finishers:

- Keith Pierce 15:04
- Chris Strait 16:38
- Dave Matlack 16:40

Women’s 5K top three finishers:

- Wendy Ragle 18:52
- Sandra Ricaud 20:21
- Karen Matlack 20:38

For more information about the Lake Highlands Junior Women’s League, visit their website at http://www.lhjwl.org.