From left, Patty Richardson, Syracuse, Kearstin Criswell, Warsaw, and Krystal Smith, Warsaw, cross the finish line. (Photos by Amanda McFarland)

WINONA LAKE — They may not have been faster than a speeding bullet, but approximately 150 local “superheroes” gathered in Winona Lake today, Saturday, April 30, to conquer the second annual Hero Run.

Approximately 150 costumed crusaders gathered to raise local awareness of three local organizations that uphold justice and serve as heroes to many in the community. These local hero organizations include Beaman Home, Court Appointed Special Advocates and Victims Assistance.

“It’s child abuse prevention month and we’re just trying to raise awareness of what these organizations do,” Whalen said.

The event included a 5K run, a one-mile “Chase the Hero” race and an awards ceremony. Kids and adults also gathered indoors to enjoy food and watch “The Incredibles.” In one corner, Whalen’s daughter, 5-year-old Brooklyn, sold lemonade so she could donate the funds toward the event.

“She always wanted to do a lemonade stand,” Brooklyn’s grandmother, Trudy Roley, said, adding that Brooklyn wanted to do her part to help out during the event.

In keeping with the theme, many participants came as their favorite superheroes, including but not limited to Batman, Spiderman, Wonder Woman, Superman, the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and Captain America. This was the second year for the event. While an official count has not yet been tallied, attendance was believed to have been up from last year, despite a cold, rainy morning.