Participants laughed and cheered and some were emotionally and physically drained as they crossed the finish line at last Saturday’s Northshore Special Families’ Can Do event at the Seattle Times building in Bothell.

About 1,300 people participated (more than double from last year’s inaugural gathering) in the event for families with special-needs children, which included 5K and 10K runs/walks and a children’s dash.

According to Konnie Drews, one of the organizers, monetary figures weren’t available at press time, but Sam and Megan Young from Woodinville were the top family fund-raiser and Team Eddie (a neighborhood group from Bothell) was the top team fund-raiser.

“The most important part of the the Can Do 5K/10K to us, the organizing committee, is the inclusive atmosphere of the race and the opportunity to increase awareness and acceptance of people of all abilities,” said Drews. “Everyone was integrated at this event; it wasn’t just an event of top athletes to raise money for children with special needs, nor was it an event just for people with limited abilities to participate. It was a community event to celebrate that we can all do something and do it together.”

Friends of Spartas won the largest team award with 50-plus members, Lakeshore Clinic from Bothell was the fastest team, Team Jocelyn had the most team spirit and Michael Tronson was the most inspirational athlete. Tronson participated last year in the 1-mile walk, and this year took on the challenge with his parents of doing the 5K and he completed it in 1:09:57.

Most of the participants were from Bothell, Woodinville, Kirkland, but also there were many from Seattle, Redmond and Kenmore. The youngest participant was an infant and oldest was 78.

“We have had so much feedback from the community, and many of our sponsors and vendors have already committed to being involved again next year with others wanting to join. So, it looks like there is great momentum for years to come,” Drews said.