More than 1,000 runners, students, educators, families, neighbors and even pets filled the streets of downtown Burien on Saturday, Oct. 4 for the annual Brat Trot, an event that raised more than $50,000 to support Highline Schools Foundation programs.

The fundraiser, supported by more than 20 community teams, 20 local business sponsors and dozens of volunteers, featured a mix of people of all ages – several in costume – running, walking, jogging and even being pushed in strollers.

Mascots from three regional sports franchises joined the festivities, adding to the community atmosphere.

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“It’s great to be in a community that cares so deeply about our schools,” said Fred Swanson, Executive Director of the Highline Schools Foundation. “Witnessing this tremendous community investment makes the work of our foundation so joyous and rewarding, and makes it clear to Highline teachers, students, and families that they’re deeply supported.”

Hazel Valley Elementary earned a $500 prize for the largest student participation, narrowly edging out Gregory Heights Elementary.

Soundview Strength and Conditioning claimed the free pizza party prize from Burien Pizzeria for assembling the largest adult team, topping first-time competitors The Swole Brats from Tiltshift CrossFit by five members.

Race winners included Kyle Seago and Daria Etchings in the 5K, and Uriel Alvarado and Sloane Sandoval in the 1K.

Brat Trot 5K winner Kyle Seago as he crosses the finish line in a close race.

Daria Etchings was the top women’s finisher this year.

The Brat Trot is one of the Highline Schools Foundation’s largest community fundraisers and supports programs for students and families across the entire school district, which serves Burien, Des Moines, Normandy Park, SeaTac and White Center.

Learn more about the Highline Schools Foundation here:

https://highlineschoolsfoundation.org

EDITOR’S NOTE: The B-Town Blog has been the media sponsor of the Brat Trot since it started in 2009, and we’re proud to continue to support the great work of the Highline Schools Foundation.

Video

Below are videos of the start of the race (including slow-motion of all runners – can you see yourself?) as well as of Seago crossing the finish line to win by a nose over four others, as filmed/edited by Scott Schaefer (running time 9-minutes, 15-seconds):