The eighth annual Autism 5K brought out all of the heroes of autism and their fans in the superhero-themed race Saturday. 

The weather was warm and sunny as the race began at 8 a.m. The starting and ending point was on Main Street in front of the fountain. The winner of the 5K run was 23-year-old Ray Bishop, running 3.1 miles in 18:27. Great times, fun costumes and an empowering show of support made the race a beautiful and heartwarming spectacle. 

Organizing the yearly event is Queens for a Cause. Director Darlene Byrant says, “This event began as a passion project for our family, as we have two members who are on the autism spectrum, and we are very thankful the community has embraced this cause and grateful for their continued support. This cause has grown to our largest participation thus far, and it’s a cause that needs advocacy and awareness.”

Over 700 people registered for the run to support this wonderful cause, making this the largest race yet. The event raises approximately $10,000 each year, Bryant said. The money from the registration goes toward a variety of good causes to benefit individuals who are part of the autism community in Warren County. 

These profits go to charities such as Autism Tennessee and Autism Speaks, as well as Petey’s Project, which built a special-needs playground at Hickory Creek Elementary. The funds raised go to providing school supplies and money to special needs’ classrooms for field trips, activities and purchasing weighted blankets and vests.

Since Warren County doesn’t have an ABA, or Applied Behavior Analysist, therapist who deals with teaching children on the autism spectrum how to build and improve their behavioral skills, the money raised goes to making one available to the autism community, as well as helping with tutoring and speech therapy. 

Pool parties, trips to the bowling alley and other fun summer activities are paid for so the high-functioning autistic children can interact with one another, gain friendships and have fun, just as non-autistic children do. Bryant has gotten more involved with the parents of children on the autism spectrum to decipher the most beneficial ways to use the money to better these families’ lives.

“The money raised through the marathon is used to help kids on the spectrum, as well as some older people with autism, throughout the entire county. This money is filtered back into our kids. This is important since it is put directly back into our community,” says Jenna Sullens. 

Sullens is the mother of 8-year-old Hudson Winfree, who is a high-functioning autistic child. She led Huddy’s Heroes in the race.

“This event is important because many parents don’t realize there is help for the autistic children here. When parents of children on the autism spectrum see so many people who have been affected by autism come to a large event like this, it raises awareness of the support and help that is in the community,” adds Sullens.

There were several large teams with the largest group being Austin’s Army with approximately 150 team members. Austin Cook is 17 years old with high-functioning autism. He was excited to run with his best friend, Tristan Addington.

Austin says, “I feel like this is one of my favorite things in the world right now. It’s definitely my favorite part of the year. The amount of support I am seeing feels really good to know I have so many people who care about me and such great friends.”

Another group was Jayden’s Team with 25 members supporting Jayden Jones, a 9-year-old with autism.

Jayden’s mother, Dahynelia Grayson, says, “This race brings autism awareness to everyone in the community. Every child is different, and this is something that does need to be brought awareness to. Of course, autism holds a special place in my heart. Having the support we’ve gotten is amazing because it goes a long way since they understand and are able to help spread awareness.”

The runners and walkers made their way through the downtown area, across Westwood Bridge and circled through Westwood to head back to Court Square. Before the race started a prayer was held. As runners crossed the finish line, shouts of joy and clapping filled the air.