The Corontzes family hosted the annual Helen’s Hugs 5K run/walk Sunday to raise money for Happy Hooves, an equestrian therapy program for special needs children in Easley. Left to right: George, Lesa, Christine, Lex, Adelyn and Matt

Ann Nimmer checks on Buck as he greets friends, families and runners. Nimmer, who is a long-time friend of the Corontzes family, is a hunting guide in the lower part of South Carolina, and Buck is her helper. “Helen was a loving child. She was just full of life and loved the outdoors, and she was just a wonderful, wonderful kid and student,” Nimmer said.

Kids were in and out of the bouncy castles throughout the 5K.

Representatives of Fitness Attic, which offers Zumba classes in Clemson, wait to run in the 5K. “I think it’s great to support local charities and friends,” Sandra Brown, a Zumba instructor, said. Linda Foster said, “It’s a great time for us to get together.” Left to right: Megan Brown, Jill Williams with Adam Williams, Sandra Brown, Linda Foster, and David Williams with Joel Williams.

A signed Tiger print by Coach Dabo Swinney was one of the many prizes in the Helen’s Hugs raffle.

Naomi Flannigan (left), who plans to run a race in all 50 states, chats with Helen’s mother Lesa Corontzes. Flannigan is from Huntsville, Alabama.

Davy Hiott, a junior at Daniel High School, came in first in the Helen’s Hugs 5K, finishing in 18 minutes. “It feels great. It feels awesome,” Hiott said about winning. Hiott, who is a friend of the Corontzes family, praised the event. “The Corontzes family does so much for special needs kids.”

Next to Buck the dog was the list of sponsors for the 5K. The Tiger was proud to be a part of it.

Helen’s mother Lesa Corontzes visits Tonka with her grandchildren. Left to right: Lex, Adelyn and Beck

Lesa Corontzes and her grandson Beck pay Tonka a visit.