LVHN’s First Run 4 Pies Event Builds Community at LVH–Hecktown Oaks

Pie, oh my! Finishers receive pie as a reward after running four miles at Run 4 Pies

By Brian Downs

November 18, 2022

LVHN’s First Run 4 Pies Event Builds Community at LVH–Hecktown Oaks

Runner completing Run 4 Pies at LVH–Hecktown Oaks.

Two of the runners show the Wegmans pie they received after completing 4-mile run at Run 4 Pies at LVH–Hecktown Oaks.

Group of runners pose with pies after completing 4-mile run at Run 4 Pies at LVH–Hecktown Oaks.

We all probably have said at one time or another that we need to get more exercise. And while for many that might not involve running, there was a little more incentive on Sunday, Nov. 13, than usual to get moving during Lehigh Valley Health Network’s (LVHN) Run 4 Pies.

You heard it right. The health network held its first ever Run 4 Pies with a free pie the prize at the conclusion of the 4-mile run. The race was held at Lehigh Valley Hospital (LVH)–Hecktown Oaks and spotlighted the importance of community health and wellness initiatives, patient assistance and general needs at the hospital in Lower Nazareth Township – which event proceeds will support.

Close to 140 participants joined the 4-mile race or 1-mile family fun run.

Close to 140 participants joined the 4-mile race or 1-mile family fun run. Runners who successfully completed the 4-mile race received a pie at the finish line. Sponsors of the event included Wegmans, which donated delicious pumpkin pies, Keystone Running Store and The Charles Chrin Companies.

A look at the results would make one think the event was as easy as pie for 14-year-old Virginia Kraus of Bethlehem, the top overall finisher with a time of 24:18.42. And it was pie in the sky for top male finisher Rich Fotiades of Emmaus, who covered the 4-mile course in 25:31.15.

No matter how you slice it, everyone had a great time helping to raise awareness of hospital initiatives that are vital to the LVH–Hecktown Oaks community.