By Carl Holcomb
Moorefield Examiner
“I…have gained much joy and comfort from your love.” Philemon 1:7.
The community support and love spread throughout Brighton Park in remembrance of beloved Moorefield teacher and coach Joy Snyder Coby.
The 8th Annual Run for Joy 5k and Walk brought the community together to honor her memory, create awareness about domestic violence and brought hope to everyone.
One of Joy Coby’s favorite quotes was: ‘you got this’ and it was featured on her Moorefield Track team’s shirts and was part of the design for this year’s theme.
Run for Joy is a fun event for all ages with not only the special race and walk, but included fun activities for the kids including a bounce house, face painting, inflatable animals to ride, scavenger hunt and local vendors and food trucks.
A fan favorite was glow-in-the-dark walk and a glowing finish line tunnel as participants held glow sticks and necklaces to bring more joy and laughter as the evening came to an end.
“The 8th Annual Run for Joy was everything we hoped it would be and so much more. Quite possibly, our favorite event yet. Seeing our community come together to honor Joy’s memory while supporting such an important cause was truly amazing. To every participant who walked, ran, volunteered, donated, sponsored, shared our event, cheered from the sidelines, or simply showed up to support us…Thank you! Every single act of kindness, no matter how big or small, helped make this event a tremendous success. The incredible support from our community sponsors continues to amaze us. Your generosity allows us to keep Joy’s legacy alive through scholarships and by raising awareness about domestic violence. Your investment in this cause means more than words can express. What stood out the most on Friday evening wasn’t just the amazing turnout, it was the love. The hugs, the smiles, the stories shared, the laughter, and the reminder that even in the wake of unimaginable loss, a community can choose hope, compassion, and action. Joy had that gift for bringing people together, and nearly eleven years later, she still does. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for helping us honor her life in such a beautiful way. We are deeply grateful for each of you and are already looking forward to continuing this mission together,” A statement provided by the Joy Snyder Coby Memorial Foundation.
“But none of these things move me, nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus.” Acts 20:24.
East Hardy Cross Country team had several members competing and finished with success, including senior Jonathan Montgomery earning his first 5k championship.
“It was an amazing event and it was really special, because you could tell how much everyone cared. It was an amazing feeling, especially because it was my first time getting first in a 5k. My key to a good pace is keeping the same. Breathing pace as your running pace. It was absolutely amazing because we’ve become like a family and the support we have for each other is very special,” Jonathan Montgomery commented.
Cougars sophomore Kane Persinger collected a silver medal.
“It was a good run and it means a lot that it’s helping a good cause. Our team has been running a lot this summer and doing really well. I also replay liked the medal,” Kane Persinger noted.
East Hardy sophomore Shay Barb earned first place overall in the women’s division and third place for her class.
Moorefield graduate Veronica Carr collected first place for her group along with Cayden Armstrong.
Joy Coby’s son and Moorefield Volleyball coach Kellan Snyder was a gold medalist in his division.
Keeping his mother’s spirit of loving the outdoors alive, inspired Snyder to create his own business called Breezewood Adventures which offers kayak and fishing tours along the South Branch of the Potomac River and waterways in the Potomac Valley.
East Hardy Cross Country coach Michelle Wolfe finished in first place for group.
“My family has been participating since the beginning. Joy was my little league cheerleading coach, and as I grew up she always made me feel loved. This year was my favorite, because so much of the team showed up to run. They brought the joy to the Run for Joy. Jon and Kane finished 1 and 2. Shaye finished 3rd, but as top female. I think those three are going to be really competitive this season. They have been running all summer. I am so happy they gave back by participating in the Run for Joy. That is how they can keep the sport for ether whole lives,” East Hardy Cross Country coach Michelle Wolfe remarked.
This race helps to raise funds for the Joy Snyder Coby Memorial Foundation Scholarship for local high school graduates and instills hope within the community.
Run for Joy with love, hope and grace for all.
“I will run in the way of your commandments when you enlarge my heart.” Psalm 119:32.
