Local race ends after 19th year

Sounds of determination perforated a quiet neighborhood and eager spectators awaited the winners at the finish line. Dry leaves crackled as participants traveled through the residential streets of Bloomington. \nBut the finish line signified more than the end of a race Sunday. It signified the end of a legacy. \nHarmony School hosted the 19th and final Breakaway Run. A part of a series of races titled "The Magnificent Seven," the event has become one of the most beloved among competitive runners and walkers throughout the Midwest. The race included a 5K run, a 5K walk and a fun run for children 12 and under. It serves as a major fund-raiser for the school known for its commitment to alternative education. \nHoping to raise $5,000 from Sunday's event, participants and administrators said the race was a success.\nJake Nay won the men's 5K run and Amy Bork took home the prize for the women. The winners of the men and women's 5K walk were Jerry Lambert and Abby Oliver. \nThe impetus behind the run is Dr. Jerry Ruff, a retired allergist from Bloomington. A member of the school's advisory board and an avid runner, Ruff combined his two passions into one event. \nUnlike many private schools, Harmony uses a "sliding scale tuition policy," allowing students to overcome any financial barriers. Sunday's race helps to provide scholarships to the school for low-income families. \n"We try to offer a well-balanced education in a supportive environment to kids of all backgrounds," said race coordinator and Harmony School Administrative Coordinator Libby Cosgrave. \nFounded in 1974, Harmony School serves students from pre-kindergarten to high school. It offers smaller classes and requires students to take an active part in the community. The school integrates service into the curriculum at an early age. \nDavid and Cynthia Boxler of Franklin, Ind., said it is this approach to education that motivated them to participate. The Boxlers began competitive running five years ago, and the "Breakaway Run" was one of their first races. Now they compete every other weekend between April and November. \nBecause of the popularity of competitive running, the Boxlers don't have to travel far. Numerous races were created in the area to fulfill demand. This influx has caused a decline in attendance to the Breakaway Run, causing its end. \nBut many participants had made the Breakaway Run a permanent part of their itinerary. \nBarbara Backler, curriculum coordinator for the school, said, "You see a lot of the same faces every year." \nKim Scherschel of Bedford was one of those faces. Hoping to qualify for the Indianapolis Mini Marathon in May, Scherschel left Sunday's event doubly disappointed. His last Breakaway would not hand him the victory he desired. \nScherschel, like others, will have other opportunities to race. Harmony School will host another race the first weekend in June, the Oliver Winery Run. It is the hope of the administration that June's event will be more heavily attended, thus guaranteeing its survival.