Beethoven's whole family supports Kennett Symphony

Beethoven’s whole family supports Kennett Symphony

Posted by Emily Myers on July 23, 2013

Runners line up under the direction of Beethoven

More than two hundred runners lined up under the direction of Beethoven, that is Adam Knox dressed as Beethoven, for the Kennett Symphony benefit 5K/1 Mile walk. The race was designed to see if runners could run 5K in less time than it takes to perform Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5, or approximately 32 minutes.

The July 18 event was held at Radley Run Country Club. The 94 degree heat did not discourage runners or those cheering on the sidelines, although much water was consumed during the race. Some stations within the course even ran out of water, many runners scoffed up the bottles of water at the finish line to drink and pour over their heads. A few of the 230 registrants decided not to run because of the heat and turned cheer leaders for the rest of the runners.

Volunteer Lucy McClung poses with Beethoven before the race.

The event was organized by Kathy Knox, also known as mother of Beethoven, to raise funds for the Kennett Symphony. The entire event was run by volunteers such as Lucy McClung and Board President Paul Merluzzi who were on hand to show his support. Birmingham Township Police, Chester County Running Store, and Joe Mendez General Manager from Radley Run Country all pitched in to create a well run, successful event.

According to Monica Buffington, executive director of the Kennett Symphony, the total revenue is not known yet because of several outstanding bills. Buffington does know event was highly successful and that the money raised will go to good use for education and outreach. The Kennett Symphony sponsors young artists competitions, children’s concerts and free concerts for area senior centers.

Adam and Sabina Knox finishing the race.

Beethoven, Adam Knox, finished the race with his daughter Sabina. Knox has participated in the Broad Street run and on the American Odyssey team relay from Gettysburg PA to Washington DC.

First place runner was Angel Rodriguez with a time of 19 minutes and 31 seconds. In another family duo, sisters Lauren and Gretchen Mills placed second and third. Complete race results for the walkers can be found at http://runccrs.com/results/beethoven-1-mile-walk-results/ for the runners at http://runccrs.com/results/beethoven-1-mile-walk-results/

After the race, walkers, runners and cheerers retired to the grill at Radley Run for food and much needed hydration of many varieties.

About Emily Myers

Emily Myers has lived and worked in Chadds Ford for over thirty five years. She founded the parent company of Chadds Ford Live, Decision Design Research, Inc., in 1982. ChaddsFordLive.com represents the confluence of Myers' long time, deep involvement in technology and community. Myers was a founding member of the Chadds Ford Business Association and currently serves on its board of directors. Her hobbies include bridge, golf, photography and Tai Chi. She lives with her husband, Jim Lebedda, in Chadds Ford Township.