In 1993, Corene “Renie” Amoss, a recent Goucher graduate, was killed in an automobile accident. She was a three-sport athlete, an honors student who majored in economics and business management, and a friend to all. With her family’s blessing and involvement, the Athletic Department created the Renie Amoss Memorial Race. Each year, since the founding of the event in October 1993, the proceeds made from the 5k go toward the Renie Amoss Fund. The fund grants monetary awards to Goucher College students who have established an extraordinary academic record while partaking in more than one facet of student life on campus, just like Renie did. By 2012, the fund had reached a total of $150,000, thanks to race proceeds, fundraising, and generous donations.
The race takes place during Goucher’s Family Weekend, which allows students, family members, alumni/ae, and friends run the race, along with the general public. Ian Furst, ’18, ran the race this year and placed 2nd in the Men’s 21-25 age group. Furst reflected on the race saying, “The Renie Race is an amazing way to honor the incredible legacy of Renie Amoss. Not only does the run remember an incredible member of the Goucher family, but it helps to bring the whole of Goucher together every year, serving as a bond between all Goucher students, families, and friends of the school.”
Participants are also able to walk the race. Rachel Kieffer, ’18, and her mother walked the distance while her father ran. Kieffer, who is originally from California, enjoys taking part in the walk, while her mother collects leaves. “We don’t experience fall in California, so I like to collect leaves and watch the runners, plus it’s for a good cause and to spread the memory of Renie,” Kieffer’s mom says.
In addition to the students, community, and family members of Renie who come back to take part in the race, the athletic community at Goucher also gets involved. The men’s and women’s swim team have directed the foot traffic around the loop road and helped run the race since its inception in 1993. The volleyball team has in many years helped with registration and tabling. Goucher Basketball, men’s and women’s have also been volunteers. This year, Goucher pride was particularly strong with a large turnout for the race despite cool and rainy weather. At the end of the race, the three recipients of the Renie Amoss Fund are introduced, with this year’s winners being Wonde Pawlose, Jonny Davies, and Maren Hilliard.
