Colorado Knights of Columbus will host a 5K run and walk June 28 at Light of the World Church in Littleton to raise funds for the organization’s Ultrasound Initiative.
“To make a good decision you need all the information,” said John Bullock, race director and a member of Father Francis Syrianey Council 12567. “And an ultrasound definitely gives you the information you need to make a good decision.”
Studies have shown that women considering abortion have changed their minds after seeing their baby’s beating heart on an ultrasound, Bullock said. The Ultrasound Initiative has been one of the Knights’ most successful pro-life programs: as of last year, they had invested more than $8.5 million to place 334 ultrasound machines in centers nationwide. The equipment is funded through joint efforts of local, state and the Supreme Council.
The list price for an ultrasound machine can be as high as $100,000. However, through the Supreme Council, most can be purchased at a discount: a 2-D machine will usually run $20,000 to $40,000; and a 3-D/4-D machine from $40,000 to $60,000. Once a local or state council raises half of the cost, the Supreme Council will match dollar for dollar.
Bullock, former president of Rocky Mountain Road Runners, one of Denver’s largest running clubs, brings many years of race organization experience to the annual event, in its fourth year.
“It’s not only a race with a good cause,” he said, “but we’re going to make it a lot of fun.”
New this year, there will be team categories: Knights’ councils can compete against each other, as well as parish teams. Parish winners will be awarded medals, and the winning Knights’ team will receive the newly established traveling trophy, the “Respect Life Cup.”
“We’re hoping for some friendly competition,” Bullock said.
There will be awards for both the male and female divisions, by age group, and a trophy for the overall winner. The family-friendly event will also include a kids’ 1K fun run, prize raffles and a pancake breakfast. The Denver Catholic Register is an event sponsor.
Registration is available online at www.respectlife5k.org. The $30 entry fee includes breakfast, a T-shirt and goodie bag. On race day, registration begins at 7 a.m. and costs $35. Light of the World Church is located at 10316 W. Bowles Ave. in Littleton. For more information, email respectlife5k@gmail.com or call 303-358-7422.