Jingle Bell 2018

The Sights and Sounds of Christmas 5k and Jingle Bell 1k in downtown San Marcos had a record number of participants this year: over 1,000 runners in creative outfits ran along the route through the historic district while listening to festive music! Along with a merry collection of Santas, elves, Grinches, and snowmen, there were a total of 19 runners who incorporated their #RunWithTheGradDeans shirts into their holiday-inspired outfits.

Given the large crowds at the event, it proved to be difficult to gather everyone for a group picture, though we do have individual pictures on Facebook. If you snapped a picture that you would like to see added to the collection, let us know! One thing is for certain: #RunWithTheGradDeans needs a banner or sign so that we can more easily find each other at races which draw larger crowds. 

Given the race morning’s cool temps and wind, everyone was eager to start running just to get warm! As always, friendly crowds lined the streets and cheered the runners on. Upon crossing the finish line, hot cocoa and sandwiches awaited each participant. What a special seasonal treat! The awards ceremony at this race was equally special: the top three winners in each age category received a Santa-themed trophy (check out the pictures to see some of our speedy runners) and in between the award announcements, race organizers held raffles. While none of us won the huge flat-screen TV or the boat-tour worth $400, one of us won a massage and the other a 3-month membership to a local health club! Thank you Sights and Sounds and Race Director Jill.

Our human runners + one canine raised $760 towards scholarships at this event, and that's certainly something to celebrate! Happy holidays to all!