In the spring of 2020, 14-year-old Lisa Napoletano loved track and field. She had found the sport by accident, but fell in love with it.

Napoletano competed at meets for Jim Thorpe and Marian High Schools, and was destined to go far in the sport. However, on April 5, 2020, an accident on an ATV ended her short and promising life.

The following year; her mother, Melissa Napoletano, created the Lisa Napoletano Running With the Angels 5K/1M to keep her daughter’s legacy alive.

“We host this so we can get some scholarships for track students in the area,” she explained. “Each year, we give scholarships to students in the track and field programs at Jim Thorpe and Marian High Schools, and we assist at running camp.”

The 5K sees up to 100 people taking part each year, either running or walking. Some people compete in 5K’s and other race events on a regular basis. Others take part simply to support this program.

Tiffany Klingerman, from Mifflinville, Pennsylvania, enjoys running and walking and participates in several events each year. She especially likes this one.

“I’ve been doing this run for the past three years,” Klingerman said. “It’s just kind of a health and wellness thing I try to do each year. I was a big runner for awhile. In 2023, I took part in 30 different races. Then, I had some injuries, so I don’t do as many. I am still making sure I’m bouncing back and staying active. And a big plus for this event is that it gives me a good reason to come to Jim Thorpe. I love this area!”

Erin Rupell, of Lehighton, took part in the 5K walk, and had her 17-month old daughter, Willow, with her in a stroller. She doesn’t usually do these kinds of events.

“I am here to support my friend,” Rupell said. “I will be doing the walking rather than running, as I am expecting another child in about a month.”

The 5K began in the county parking lot in Jim Thorpe, just at the entrance to the walking bridge. The route is 1.5 miles south on the D & L Trail, then back again.