The weather was perfect for the annual tradition of races, chicken splat bingo, roaming chickens, music, vendors and more at the 10th anniversary of the Good Life Festival.
The event, which was held Oct. 8 at Bull Branch Park, raised thousands of dollars this year for key community projects, including upgrades to the surface of Memorial Field as well a new family fitness park nearby with exercise facilities and new landscaping, plus a new percussion park at Murphy Park.
“It’s a great turnout,” said Julie Rydell, an organizer and founder of the race. “Everyone is having a good time.”
The morning began with about 200 people of all ages participating in the 5K race, followed by the kids race shortly thereafter. Other events included a confetti egg battle and chicken bingo. In addition, many families with small children enjoyed watching the live chickens roaming around the poultry zoo.
First-place winner Kingston Wilson, 13, and female first-place winner Talia Johnson, 12, both declined the $50 dollar cash prize due to University Interscholastic League regulations preventing student athletes from receiving money for any athletic event.
Kingston Wilson had the fastest finish time overall with 17:36, and brother Keegan Wilson, 14, the second fastest finish at 17:46.
Mom Joann Wilson said it was wonderful to behold them. “I’m very proud,” Wilson said. “I’m always very proud of them.”
Johnson’s finish time was 21:48. Since the race was launched in 2012, more than $150,000 has been raised for a variety of community projects. Organizers have donated to Taylor Public Library, Taylor Animal Shelter, Bull Branch Disc Golf Course, Murphy Park and Taylor Regional Park playgrounds.
Old Taylor High Co-owner and volunteer Kaitlyn Olle said she and her whole family love to be a part of Good Life.
“I think what we are fundraising money for is really important for Taylor,” Olle said. “We are trying to help make a difference for the lives of people in Taylor.”
