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S. Korean Santas run for charity
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CNTV, December 12, 2011
South Korean runners are getting into the holiday spirit in style. More than 2,000 of "Santa’s Helpers" took part in a festive run for charity.
Santas stretch, twist, bend and turn. Put a few thousand people in red and white costumes, and even a beard, and suddenly a regular 5km marathon race becomes ten times more fun.
While eager runners take up the front of the starting line, the more laid back families decide it’s better to stroll the park with their little ones.
But at the finish line, it’s back to the competitive spirit. Even though they’re red-faced, sweaty and out of breath, the Santas are proud to complete the run.
Noh Gyeong-Tae, a participant, said, “It feels refreshing and great. I hesitated this morning because it was so cold, but it feels great after the run.”
Winners were awarded with flowers and gifts, but the true meaning of participating in this event lies in its contributions to charity.
Kim Hyo Seon, a publisher of The Women’s News, said, “This event is focused on donating and keeping healthy. Participants are encouraged to come out instead of staying in-doors during the cold winter, and to give to charity.”
The Santas also test out their muscle power in a game of tug-of-war. This may be a charity event, but there is still a lot of room for competitive energy.
It’s three degrees below zero outside, but all this energy and the thought of sharing has kept all two thousand participants warm and ready for Christmas.
Choi Young-Joo, a participant, said, “I came here my friends to make memories before we hit last year of high-school.”
Jeon Bu-Seong, a participant, said, “t feels like Christmas already, and I really hope I can make a girlfriend this winter.”
Yang Gi-Eun, a participant, said, “I’m so glad it feels like Christmas today, and it’s even more fun because I’m here with my friends.”
With only two more weeks to go until December 25th, people in South Korea are already wishing for a white Christmas.
