The men’s and women’s winners made history and credit unions presented a check for $323,000 to Children’s Miracle Network (CMN) Hospitals Sunday morning at the Credit Union Cherry Blossom Ten Mile Run. This year marked the 49^th running of the event, dubbed the “runner’s rite of spring.”

“Credit unions are proud to partner with the Credit Union Cherry Blossom Run, and to support the amazing work done by Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals during Credit Union Miracle Day,” said CUNA President/CEO Jim Nussle. 

The men’s winner—Kenyan Nicholas Kosimbei—tied the course record set in 2012 with a time of 45:15. Women’s winner Susanna Sullivan, a resident of Reston, Va., became the first local runner to win the race since 1983.

Brad Green, president/CEO of Listerhill CU and immediate past chair of the CUNA board, held the finish line as the winners crossed.

Credit unions have raised nearly $10 million for CMN Hospitals over the past 20 years. Credit unions are the fifth largest annual collector of donations, and the third largest total donor to CMN.

“This race is not just about the race, it’s about an example of people helping people, which is the credit union motto,” said John Bratsakis, president/CEO of the Maryland|D.C. Credit Union Association, who welcomed runners from the starting line Sunday morning.

Interior Secretary Deb Haaland also addressed attendees before running the race herself. Members of Congress who ran Sunday include Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y., and Reps. Chrissy Houlahan, D-Pa., Dr. Greg Murphy, R-N.C., and Jay Obernolte, R-Calif.

CUNA and joined credit unions to kick off the race weekend Friday as runners picked up their packets.

“This event is a natural extension of credit unions’ commitment to financial well-being for all,” said CUNA Chief Advocacy Officer Ryan Donovan.

Tim Anderson, president/CEO of U.S. Senate FCU, a race sponsor, shared his own personal experiences with CMN hospitals. His granddaughter began rapidly losing weight and no specialist could diagnose her until they came to CMN hospitals. Now she’s thriving with a child of her own.

“We’re so thankful we were led to CMN hospitals,” Anderson said. “Whenever there’s a way to support them, I’m in.”

Montez Hairston, interim CEO of Congressional FCU, another lead sponsor, said all support for an event like the run should be applauded.

“All the proceeds raised go directly toward supporting children and their future,” he said.

Additional information about credit union support of CMN Hospitals can be found cu4kids.org.