Kingsville Community Rallies for Autism Awareness Run

Local

Apr 13

By Mikki Rodriguez and Menda Eulenfeld, STCN

KINGSVILLE, TEXAS - The City of Kingsville Parks and Recreation Department hosted a 5K Autism Awareness Run on Saturday, April 11, bringing the community together to support and raise awareness for individuals on the autism spectrum.

Residents from Kingsville, Bishop, and Corpus Christi gathered early at Dick Kleberg Park, where participants of all ages walked and ran the three-mile course. Many attended in support of family members, friends, neighbors, and others in the community affected by autism.

Juan Soliz earned first place overall, finishing with a time of 20:19. Photo by Mikki Rodriguez.

Registration began at 7 a.m., with vendors from across the region setting up booths offering information, resources, and promotional items related to autism services. Snacks and drinks were also available for runners at the finish line.

Among the vendors was Jeannie Marquez with the Pediatric Therapy Association, which provides physical, occupational, and speech therapy services. Marquez said the organization serves a wide range of children, noting that more than half of their clients are on the autism spectrum, along with others who have different disabilities. She added that events like the run are important for increasing public understanding and encouraging positive interactions within the community.

Runners began stretching ahead of the race start at 8 a.m., while vendors and organizers gathered for photos alongside an autism awareness fire truck from Bishop. Community members mingled as they waited for participants to complete the course.

The first runner crossed the finish line at approximately 8:20 a.m. Juan Soliz earned first place overall, finishing with a time of 20 minutes and 19 seconds. Soliz said he participated to support the community and shared that he has been running since the age of five. He is currently active in track and field and cross country.

Following the race, organizers recognized participants and awarded medals. Five individuals on the autism spectrum were honored with a group photo before overall placements were announced. The event concluded with runners, vendors, and firefighters gathering for a final group photo in front of the autism awareness fire truck.

Parks and Recreation hosts similar events year-round. Stay informed by following their Facebook and Instagram pages, or contact them directly at 361-221-8705 or via email at sivy@cityofkingsville.com.