5th Airman Nathan E. Smith run to benefit FACT, cancer patient

After her son died five years ago, a local mother decided to organize a 5K run/walk in his memory to give back to the community. Tammy Smith's son, Airman Nathan E. Smith, was serving in the U.S. Air Force at Ramstein Air Base in Germany and was killed in a motorcycle accident in 2012. As an avid runner, Smith said, she wanted to put something together for good to come out and for money to stay local. The Airman Nathan E. Smith Memorial 5K Run/Walk and Kids Fun Run is to take place May 6 starting with registration at 8 a.m. at Tiffin Eagles, 68 Riverside Drive. The 5K proceeds go to Financial Assistance for Cancer Treatment of Seneca County and a family in need diagnosed with cancer. This year, part of the proceeds are going to aid Shawn Correll and the Ovarian Cancer Fund. "Everyone is touched by cancer, and we wanted something to help out the community," Smith said. The entry fee for advance registration is $20 no later than April 28. The fee is $25 after that date and the day of the race. The fee for the kids run, for children younger than 11, is $10. T-shirts are available to all pre-registered entries and while supplies last on race day. This year, Smith said, all finishers are to receive a custom medal. Smith said about 300 people participated last year and it is her hope to register more this year. Also during the event, attendees will be able to purchase raffle tickets for the chance to win prizes such as a kayak, Oakley sunglasses, a gas grill or handmade quilt and blanket. Other door prizes also be awarded. For information or to register, visit ersmith18.wix.com/airmansmithrace. Checks can be made payable to the Nathan Smith Memorial Fund at 3240 E. CR 50, Tiffin, OH 44883.