23rd Annual Leatherneck Run with the HOT Marine Corp League

WOODWAY, Texas (KWTX) – The Heart of Texas Marine Corp League invited the community to its annual fundraiser at First Woodway Baptist Church to kick off its Toys for Tots giving drive.

Marine Corps Reserve Unit Chief of Operations Zachary Herevia says the donations will go toward collecting toys for families in need during the holidays.

“Right now we have 31 different nonprofits that we’re helping this year, and we’re going to increase that to at least 40 this year,” Herevia said.

Visitors and various clubs took part in a 1km, 5km and 10km race this morning.

The Waco Striders Running Club has been helping to run races since the first fundraiser was organized.

Race director Mitch Deskins took first place in his age group this morning and says the race is a great way to get involved in the community.

“In our number one group, we have veterans… and of course that is the Marine Corps. We support them as much as we can, as best we can,” Deskins said.

David Haight of the HOT Marine Corp League thanks everyone who attended the races for their donations and efforts.

“We want to thank the community, we want to thank everyone who came to help us. “This is our only annual fundraiser for the Marine Corps League,” Haight said.