Heard West race draws 200 runners

More than 200 people participated in the Heard Museum West's second annual "Run West With the Heard: Yéego!"wellness race Saturday in Surprise.

"It was cool to see all the families comes out," said Debra Krol, marketing communications manager for the Heard Museum.

Organizers had hoped for a bigger turnout, but the event was an improvement from last year, when the Surprise museum's run was hampered by wet, rainy, windy weather, and even a bit of fog, she said.

"The first year it was cold, but we still had people come out," Krol said. "This year, turnout was a bit lower than expected, but you never know how it's all going to work out. We're happy with the turnout for an event that's only in its second year."

Yéego, which means "try harder" in Navajo, was created to raise public awareness of type 2 diabetes, especially in the American Indian population. Another goal of the event is to draw attention to the importance of health and wellness in West Valley communities.

The race is Heard Museum West's only fundraising event, with proceeds going to children's education programming at the museum.

The event included a 10K run, 5K run/walk, a one-mile fun-walk and a kids' 100-yard dash.

Participants enjoyed live music and more vendors this year.

"It was a great way to introduce the Heard Museum to people," Krol said.