More than 300 participants gathered at Ancient Peaks Barn for a day of fitness, fundraising, and unity—raising over $44,000

ATASCADERO — The hills of Santa Margarita were alive with cheers, pounding footsteps, and laughter on Sunday morning as more than 300 participants came together at Ancient Peaks Barn — formerly Oyster Ridge — for the annual LIGHTHOUSE Atascadero Fun Run, a celebration of community and purpose.

“This was our biggest race yet,” said Lori Bagby, Chairperson of LIGHTHOUSE Atascadero. “We had over 300 runners participating in the 5K, plus our always-popular kids’ half-mile and kids’ dash races. It was just such a beautiful day filled with community, fun, and purpose.”

Founded in 2012 by the Atascadero Greyhound Foundation in response to the devastating impact of the opioid epidemic, LIGHTHOUSE Atascadero has since become a beacon of hope and healing for the community. Its mission is to provide awareness, prevention, intervention, and education related to drug and alcohol abuse. The organization partners with the Atascadero Unified School District, City of Atascadero, local businesses, service organizations, and residents to deliver impactful programming to youth and families alike.

“LIGHTHOUSE is about offering support, services, and a path to recovery for our youth. And this event helps fund those efforts in a big way,” said Bagby.

The LIGHTHOUSE Atascadero Fun Run drew runners of all ages. Photos by Lori Sortino

While the runners put in the miles, volunteers, local groups, and sponsors ensured the event ran smoothly. Kiwanis Club members flipped pancakes at the breakfast station, while Dave Fleischman handled the timing. Longtime supporters like the Schmidts helped at the finish line, continuing a tradition of commitment that has sustained the event for years.

“Our team has remained mostly the same over the years,” Bagby shared. “It just works really well. Everyone knows what they’re doing, and they come back year after year because they believe in what we’re doing.”

This year’s 5K winners included first-place male runner Hiroki Fujinaga, who crossed the finish line in an impressive 17 minutes and 10 seconds. He was followed by Triston Ioppini, who placed second with a time of 18:58. On the women’s side, Bri Calvert claimed first place with a time of 22:12, with Kristin Edler just behind her at 22:22. Kids’ race results were still being finalized at press time.

Bagby emphasized that the funds raised at the Fun Run directly benefit LIGHTHOUSE programs — both within schools and beyond. “We help fund counselors, run the reality tour for drug prevention, and support a mentorship program where eighth graders mentor sixth graders. We also sponsor healthy, positive activities that keep kids engaged and out of trouble.”

LIGHTHOUSE programs help bridge a crucial gap, offering services and support that might not otherwise be available. “The need is greater than ever,” Bagby emphasized. “Our support plays a crucial role in keeping these essential programs alive.”

The Fun Run is just the beginning. Up next, LIGHTHOUSE will host its All Comers Youth Track and Field Events every Wednesday evening in July at the Atascadero High School track. These events are designed not as fundraisers, but as community-building opportunities for kids and families to enjoy active, healthy fun over the summer. Events include everything from turbo javelin and long jump to relays and sprints. Registration is done onsite, and participation is just $5 per athlete.

“While the Fun Run helps raise funds, the All Comers events are about giving back,” Bagby said. “It’s just another way to support healthy activities and bring our community together.”

Though it takes considerable effort to organize events like these, Bagby says the reward far outweighs the work.

“It’s a lot of work, but it’s so worth it,” she reflected. “The feeling at the event is always so positive. You see groups like Team Ricky walking or running in memory of a loved one, and you really feel the community spirit and support. Everyone knows why we’re there. It’s fun, yes —but it’s also incredibly meaningful.”

For those who missed this year’s Fun Run, LIGHTHOUSE has more ways to get involved. In addition to the July track events, their annual fall golf tournament fundraiser is just around the corner, with details to be announced soon.

“Our community is truly amazing,” Bagby said. “And every time we come together like this, it reminds us of the power we have to make a difference — step by step, race by race, one child at a time.”

To learn more about LIGHTHOUSE Atascadero and upcoming events, visit atascaderogreyhoundfoundation.org