OSCEOLA COUNTY, Fla. — It was a morning filled with determination, community spirit, and a shared commitment to making a positive difference as more than 200 runners, walkers, volunteers, and supporters gathered Saturday at NeoCity in Osceola County for the 2026 Rise & Run 5K, hosted by the Rotary Club of Kissimmee West.
With Orlando Health serving as the presenting sponsor, along with the generous support of Toho Water Authority, Kissimmee Utility Authority (KUA), Osceola County, NeoCity, imec, and other community partners, the event brought people of all ages together for a meaningful morning of fitness, friendship, and giving back.
Beyond the finish line, the Rise & Run 5K supported two important causes: Help Now of Osceola, a local nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting victims and survivors of domestic violence through advocacy, awareness, and essential services, and Rotary International’s global initiative to eradicate polio, a decades-long effort to protect children around the world from the devastating disease.
Following the event, Positively Osceola spoke with Rotary Club of Kissimmee West President Kathy Pierson, who celebrated the success of the Rise & Run 5K and the community’s commitment to supporting important causes.
“We had over 200 participants come out and support Help Now Osceola County for domestic violence survivors,” Pierson shared, also highlighting Rotary International’s global initiative to eradicate polio.
“We’re just excited to be out here. This is a great course to come out and walk or run. We’re going to be back next year, and we hope you guys can come out and support,” Pierson added.
Top Male and Female Finishers
Leading the men’s division was Luis Torres, who crossed the finish line in an impressive 20 minutes, 49 seconds, earning first place overall among male competitors.
Taking the top spot in the women’s division was Laura Pineros, who completed the 5K in 21 minutes, 44 seconds, securing first place overall among female participants.
Both runners delivered outstanding performances, setting the pace for a morning of impressive finishes, personal achievements, and community celebration.
Top 10 Male Finishers
- Luis Torres — 20:49
- Michael Rodriguez — 21:17
- Lawson Castillo — 21:55
- Ivan Padilla — 21:59
- Alvin Rivera — 22:15
- David Anderson — 22:20
- Luis Figueroa — 22:29
- Giovanni Perez — 22:49
- Jorge Rodriguez — 22:51
- Joel Rivera — 22:56
Top 10 Female Finishers
- Laura Pineros — 21:44
- Karina Portillo — 23:46
- Jordan Mead — 23:48
- Rosmairy Medina — 25:03
- Kristal Soler — 26:35
- Julieth Barbosa — 26:59
- Cindy Lavigne — 27:16
- Glenda Mercado — 27:32
- Stephanie Aviles — 27:36
- Julia Soileau — 27:58
While the fastest runners earned well-deserved recognition, the success of the event extended far beyond finishing times. Every participant, whether running for a personal best or walking alongside family and friends, contributed to a morning dedicated to helping others.
The event also demonstrated the important role community partnerships play in supporting nonprofit organizations and addressing challenges both locally and globally.
A heartfelt thank-you goes to the Rotary Club of Kissimmee West for organizing and hosting the event, to Orlando Health for its leadership as presenting sponsor, and to Toho Water Authority, Kissimmee Utility Authority, Osceola County, NeoCity, imec, and all the sponsors, volunteers, and participants whose generosity and commitment helped make the 2026 Rise & Run 5K a success.
With plans already underway to return next year, the Rise & Run 5K continues to demonstrate what makes Osceola County special: people and organizations willing to come together, give their time, and make a positive impact in the lives of others.
Positively Osceola congratulates all the finishers and thanks everyone who helped make this meaningful community event possible!
