Sailors and Marines Volunteer At Bahrain's Cherry Tree Trot Fundraiser

Courtesy Photo | Master at arms Petty Officer 3rd Class Lee LaQuinton, stationed at Naval Security Force Bahrain, walks with his running partner as collects a medal for finishing the Cherry Tree Trot at the Bahrain International Circuit, Feb. 29. The biennial charity sporting event was sponsored by the American Women's Association and allowed physically and mentally-challenged participants the opportunity to compete with each other. (U.S. Navy photo/Petty Officer 2nd Class Edward Vasquez)  

02.29.2008

Courtesy Story

U.S. Naval Forces Central Command / U.S. 5th Fleet           

By Petty Officer 2nd Class Edward Vasquez

Sailors and Marines volunteered to participate in Bahrain's biggest biennial charity sporting event Feb. 29, at the Bahrain International Circuit.

Organized by the American Women's Association the Cherry Tree Trot is a fund-raising race for the physically and mentally-challenged. More then 200 service members volunteered from Naval Support Activity Bahrain; Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command and supporting tenant commands.

Volunteers helped by handing out water, acting as referees and aiding the participants in the race.

Intelligence specialist Petty Officer 3rd Class Kevin E. Key, stationed at NAVCENT, was happy to be a part of the event.

"I'm really excited to be out here," he said. "This is a great opportunity to show appreciation for being guests in Bahrain."

Approximately 2,500 spectators attended the event, which was divided into several races for participants with different ability levels and a walk-a-thon.

Chief Petty Officer Anthony Robinson, a member of Naval Security Force Bahrain, also enjoyed his time volunteering.

"I'm just out here to have fun," he said. "I like working with people and watching children run around and enjoy themselves."

CTT organizers raised more than BD 50,000 for the charity, exceeding the amount raised in 2006.

"Without the support of the community this event would never have been possible," said Susan Craycraft, AWA volunteer coordinator. "We would like to thank everyone for their help, and we look forward to the next CTT in 2010."

• Date Taken: 02.29.2008
• Date Posted: 03.02.2008 10:59
• Story ID: 16907