Photos courtesy of Tom Zasadzinski (Cal Poly Pomona Public Affairs)

By: Tiffany Chen

Over 700 students, faculty, staff and members of the Cal Poly Pomona community lined up with their numbered placards at the 2009 Matthew Myers Memorial Run/Walk starting line on Saturday, October 17. As the horn signaled the beginning of the event, the competitive runners took off and the walkers began their trek across Cal Poly Pomona’s picturesque campus.

The philanthropic event serves to commemorate the life of Matthew Myers, a young man who lost his life when he was struck by a vehicle on campus in 2005. Matt was an avid runner and the event aims to bring the community together to keep his memory and passion alive. This year, Matt’s Run raised a total of over $30,000.

“I’m honored. Coming here and seeing all these people out here rallying for [Matt]. It’s awesome,” said Davinah Simmons, senior liberal arts major and a 2009 Myers Memorial Fund Scholarship recipient.

Two course records were broken by the top male and female runners on the Matt’s Run USA Track & Field certified track. “I didn’t realize I was first,” said Tracee Van der Wyk, 18, who earned the distinction of the top female time coming in at an amazing 18:57. Van der Wyk is a runner for the Pasadena City College women’s cross country team and hopes to participate in Matt’s Run again in future years. Miguel Cabanas, 25, was the lead male at 16:55.

This year the coveted Myers Cup award for the most spirited organization represented at Matt’s Run went to the Bronco Spirit One Group, which included members of the Bronco Athletic Association, Bronco Pep Band and Bronco Cheer Squad. The winner was chosen based on overall participation of members, spirit displayed and amount of money raised.

Kevin Myers, Matt’s father, thanked Laura Peterson and the Matt’s Run Committee, which was composed of members across campus including ASI representatives. Peterson was referred to as “the backbone of the event,” and helped plan, coordinate and oversee every single detail.

Alfred Magallanes, marketing communications assistant for ASI, served on the Matt’s Run planning committee and assisted in coordinating the publicity/outreach for the event. “The turnout was great and every year just gets better and better. I’m proud of the way the event brings together the community, creates campus pride and helps keep Matt’s legacy alive,” said Magallanes.

Since Matt’s passing, cautionary measures, such as installing a lighted crosswalk, have been taken to ensure pedestrian safety on campus. For more information on Matt’s Run and complete race results, visit www.mattsrun.org.