The 15th annual Haitian Hustle season kicked off in Becker and Bemidji, MN, on August 16. While the skies opened up in Becker just as the race began, runners and walkers still splashed their way through the streets — and raised a record-breaking $21,000 for students in Haiti.

Nearly 250 people registered for this year’s Hustle in Becker, with well over half of those actually braving the storm to run or walk. Along the route, members of Becker sports teams and other community volunteers stood with umbrellas and ponchos, cheering on the soggy hustlers with extra spirit.

Despite the weather, the competition still saw some spirited finishes. In the women’s division, sophomore Lorelai Swanson of Becker repeated as champion, crossing the line in 23:26. On the men’s side, her brother, Alex Swanson, a senior from Becker, led the way in 18:01.

After the 5K awards, the fun continued with races for kids 10 and under, who ran with the same enthusiasm — though with drier skies.

Becker’s race is coordinated by Becker Evangelical Free Church and hosted by Becker Baptist Church.

Bemidji Hustle

Meanwhile, about 170 miles north of Becker in Bemidji, MN, about 25 runners and walkers gathered on the same morning for their 3rd annual Haitian Hustle.

Hosted on the campus of Oak Hills Christian College and Camp Oak Hills, the race enjoyed clear skies, but the community was still in recovery mode after a devastating June windstorm that toppled trees across the city. Many of the Bemidji Hustle’s usual trails remained impassable, so organizers redrew the route to make the race possible.

Thanks to the perseverance of coordinator Cortney Asher, who also serves part-time as an administrative assistant for JiHM, the event went forward with joy and determination.

About the Haitian Hustle

The Haitian Hustle, JiHM’s biggest annual fundraiser, began in 2011 when Becker resident Dawn Bengtson returned from her second trip to Haiti with a vision to rally her church and community. Today, the event not only fills Becker’s streets but also has expanded to other U.S. locations, including Bemidji, and a virtual race with participants across the country.

Thanks to Hustlers, donors, and sponsors, this year’s soggy but memorable race will make a lasting impact in Haiti.

To learn more or get involved, visit www.haitianhustle.com.