Running man takes to Waynesburg’s streets to fundraiser for cancer research
WAYNESBURG – Chris Hardie, the man behind “Chris Cross the County,” has accomplished a number of athletic feats in the last eight years to raise money for the American Cancer Society.
One year, Hardie ran 51 miles in 9 1/2 hours, crossing Greene County north to south then east to west; another year, he ran 65 miles from Mt. Morris to Pittsburgh in 13 hours and 45 minutes.
Hardie, an assistant dean of student services at Waynesburg University and the school’s cross country coach, began his latest exploit Wednesday, an endeavor he said will keep him a little closer to home.
Hardie intends to run the entire Borough of Waynesburg, estimated at 24 miles, in three days during his hourlong lunch break. Hardie, who completed about seven miles Wednesday running the south side of town, hit the pavement wearing a shirt, tie and vest. However, he traded in his dress shoes for sneakers.
Why the getup?
“That’s half of what this is about,” Hardie said about calling attention to himself and his cause, which is to raise money to fight cancer.
Hardie’s said his run also coincides with Walk to Work Week, another idea he supports as an advocate for fitness and a healthy lifestyle.
During the eight years he has been involved in Chris Cross the County, Hardie’s efforts have raised about $50,000 for the American Cancer Society. Hardie, 37, said he and his wife came up with the idea for his annual challenge just after they married when they were discussing a mission to which they could dedicate themselves.
“Each of us had lost someone close to us to cancer during the year,” he said.
Hardie said he already had been involve in Relay for Life and realized money is always needed to help find a cure for the disease.
“It’s really a tough issue,” he said.
Hardie plans to run again today, covering the north side and the remainder of the south side, and hit the area around High Street Friday.
So far, for this year’s challenge, Hardie has raised about $2,000. But he’s still hoping he can raise a little more and will continue to accept donations for about the next month.
Those who would like to make a donation to Chris Cross the County can contact Hardie at 814-931-1250 or at chardie@waynesburg.edu. Checks made out to the American Cancer Society can be sent to Hardie, in care of Waynesburg University at 51 W. College St., Waynesburg, PA 15370.