Newport Harbor High run works past weather

The Newport Harbor High School PTA wasn’t going to let a little rain get in the way of its biggest fundraiser of the year Saturday morning.

As parents and volunteers gathered at Davidson Field at 5 a.m. to set up the 21st annual Harbor Heritage Run, the stadium’s dirt track had nearly turned to mud in the ongoing shower. The PTA persevered, however, moving equipment from the dirt to the grass and even getting a construction vehicle to move heavier items.

The Heritage Run, which drew more than 1,000 participants, included a 5K run and a 2K course for running or walking, with both paths covering the neighborhood around Newport Harbor High.

Co-chair Theresa Chase said she expected the event to net proceeds of around $40,000, which would go toward college scholarships, tutoring and art programs at the school. Many people, she said, came just to support the school.

“This is our 21st year doing this, and volunteers just come out every year,” Chase said. “It’s a community event as much as anything.”

— Michael Miller