PROUD
TO BE 36!
HISTORY.
The concept for The Kennett Run originated in early 1989, when Rotarian Michael R. Perna proposed to the Board of Directors of the Rotary Club of Kennett Square that Rotary join with other Kennett area service clubs to host an event designed to accomplish three major goals:
• Create sustainable camaraderie among Kennett area service organizations and citizens, and the fostering of an esprit de corps among the ethnically, economically, and occupationally diverse groups that comprise our community.
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• Create a fundraising vehicle that would net ever-increasing sums for expenditure to promote the general well-being and civic betterment of Kennett area and surrounding Chester County.
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• Showcase of the town of Kennett Square and its environs by drawing participants and spectators from the region, the nation and perhaps even the world.
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The leadership of Kennett Rotary, most notably Richard A. Sansbury, Robert A. Blackhall, Charles H. Weaver, Michael R. Perna and James P. Schultz, adopted the race proposal and designated the sum of $3,000 as seed money for this event, contingent upon the full participation of two other service clubs: the Kennett Lions Club and the Kennett Area Jaycees. Shortly after they were requested by Rotary to do so, these service clubs wholeheartedly endorsed the project by pledging their considerable administrative and human resources to bring the idea to fruition.​
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Several years later, when an unfortunate turn of events resulted in the disbandment of the Kennett Area Jaycees, The Southern Chester County Exchange Club accepted the invitation to permanently fill the gap as supporting organizations continue to change as events dictate.
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The first year's events, held on April 21, 1990, consisted of a series of walks and runs ranging from 1 mile to 10K, were sponsored by approximately a dozen individuals and businesses, and attracted well over 100 participants, several hundred spectators, and approximately 50 volunteers. Net proceeds approximated $1,500, after repayment to Rotary of its $3,000 "seed" contribution. We have been growing since.
THE KRC BOARD.
The Kennett Run Charities Board is composed of volunteers from service organizations, businesses, and area citizens who give their time and resources to make the Kennett Run a successful, fun event for serious runners, those who run for fun, and their families.
