For  the past five years, we have for the most part dodged the proverbial "bullet" of really cold, snowy, icy weather on New Year's Day. However, the 6th Annual Polar Barefoot Run truly lived up to its name on New Years Day 2010. Even with the arctic conditions, approximately a dozen hearty souls bared their soles to participate in this year's frigid event. Since the half mile trail was snow covered, we ran a half mile around the cleared parking lot. Then, for those of us feeling more adventurous, we took to the snow and ice laden trail for a half mile of frigid barefoot running to complete a full mile in single-digit weather! Everyone survived the event and most hung around for a while after the run to sip on hot chocolate and for sundry photo opportunities. The local FOX News affiliate showed up a little late for the event but we went ahead and gave the cameraman some "footage" for the local evening news (which, unfortunately, was probably left on the cutting room floor since it was not aired! Oh well!).

Overall, we had a successful run and a good time seemed to be had by all participants. Thanks to all who showed up to help support an ongoing New Year's tradition as well as a worthy cause by contributing to the Free Wheelchair Mission -- Joe, Michael, Aaron, Debra, Greg, Eldon, Christina, Shawn, Daniel, Bailey, Ciro as well as those I can't remember your names. May you all have a blessed and prosperous New Year!

   

   

   
Thank you Barefoot Michael Buttgen for these pics!

 

Additional Pics HERE at "Community Faces" by the Kansas City Star Newspaper