HAMILTON, Mont. — Trying like Robert, over 900 contestants picked up the challenge to be in the Robert’s Run in Hamilton on Saturday. Robert’s Run had participants in all 50 states, and brought community members, runners, emergency responders and families together for fun, effort and connection.

Robert’s Run honors the life of 9-year-old Robert A. Leonardi, who was killed by a hit-and-run driver in 2019.

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On Saturday, the skies had a bit of smoke, but the weather was cooler for August.

The 10K race started at 7 a.m. with about 150 runners. Emili Infeld, a professional long-distance athlete, an Olympic bronze medalist in the 10,000 meter and a member of the 2022 World Championship team, served as this year's race ambassador.  Infeld welcomed the runners as they lined up for the race and gave them a brief pep talk. “I’m so excited to be here,” Infeld said. “I love that you all are here and love to push your bodies. I hope you all have so much fun out there, we’re here for an amazing cause. Whether you are here to set your time or just are going to the finish line, enjoy this time and the people around you.”

 

After the 10K race got started, Infeld said she appreciated the kindness of the community. "It is incredible to see how this family and this community could turn something so tragic into something inspiring and encouraging," she said. "Bringing the community together is beautiful. I’ve been getting chills all morning for the kindness of everyone. The running community in Montana and Hamilton is just amazing.” She said she could see the spirit of Robert at the race.

“His handwriting is everywhere, blue was his favorite color,” Infeld said. “He tried everything and did so many sports. He was a mathlete; he was so smart and so well-rounded. He was just the perfect example to encourage everyone to try. It is inspiring to be here.”

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Some 900 contestants participated in person in Hamilton and 300 more virtually across the country, said race coordinator Doug Martin. “This is our sixth year, and it continues to grow because we bring our community together,” Martin said. “We got our first campers this year and some people from Bozeman. Our outreach has been regional. Emili runs distances so we’re getting a different demographic. Our local support from law enforcement is remarkable.”

One hundred volunteers and 75 sponsors helped the event run smoothly. 

“We’re doing this for the Leonardi family and the good they are doing with the Play Like Robert Foundation is great, so no one gets hurt on Golf Course Road again,” Martin said. “They want to continue that infrastructure and keep everyone safe.”

 

According to their Facebook page, the Play Like Robert Foundation is “connecting people through learning, play and the courage to try.” The foundation has provided $109,000 in grants for reading, sports and other needs in the Bitterroot Valley and across Montana.

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Colter Kirkland of Hamilton won the 10K with a time of 37.35.7, followed by Jeremy Davidson of Corvallis and Andrew Wetzsteon of Hamilton. Laurie Davidson of Corvallis was the first woman to cross the finish line, and fourth overall, with a time of 42.56.8.  

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