Petty Officer 1st Class Da Niel Schneider of Cle Elum, Wash., and the U.S. European Command Office of Reserve Affairs, president of the 15th Annual Stuttgart 24-Hour Marathon and Music Fest. (Charlie Coon / S&S)
STUTTGART, Germany — The Stuttgart 24-Hour Marathon and Music Fest has a new name but the same money-raising goal.
“Our primary purpose is for the kids of this community,” said Petty Officer 1st Class Da Niel Schneider.
“We’re trying to make it a better place for them so they can enjoy their time over here.”
Schneider, president of the event, said that last year’s marathon raised $14,500, which was distributed to 13 different Stutt- gart-area groups, including the teen center, the high school volleyball team and a local swim club.
Teams or individuals from Kaiserslautern, Heidelberg and other military communities are invited to participate, too.
But she noted that the proceeds would stay in Stuttgart.
The runners and walkers raise money by buying a commemorative T-shirt or sweatshirt.
Kids are invited to join in a marathon of activities such as face-painting and a bouncing castle.
“Music Fest” was added to the event’s name to help highlight the four bands have so far signed up to play: country musician Barry Foley, modern rockers Apathy, oldies and contemporary act Kitchen Pass, and oldies and classic rock band American Pie.
Members of the local American Legion will be grilling hamburgers and hot dogs; Saturday morning they will be preparing pancake breakfasts.
Beverages will be available including kegs of beer. Proceeds go to the youth groups.
The marathon is held on the track at Huskey Field, Patch Barracks, and most of the activities take place on the football field inside the track.
Schneider said that about 1,000 people participated in 2003, including more than 20 teams of walkers and runners. Trophies are awarded for various team accomplishments.
A few individuals actually ran or walked for the entire 24 hours.
Schneider more young people from local sports teams would join in this year, since they are the ones who could potentially benefit.
Marathon information
What: 15th annual Stuttgart 24-Hour Marathon and Music FestWhen: Noon, Sept. 10Where: Huskey Field, Patch Barracks, Stuttgart, GermanyWho: Open to all DOD ID-card holders.Cost: $12 for kids T-shirt, $16 for adult T-shirt, $25 for sweatshirt.More information: www.stuttgart-community-marathon.com; Da Niel Schneider at DSN 430-6501; Tim Brown at tbrown@novainternational.com
