1st 'Run for the Hill of It' in Aspinwall a steep success

Organizers of a recent fundraiser in Aspinwall are planning to Run for the Hill of It every year.

“It was a great success,” said Rob Tenenini of the April 24 dash up Center Avenue — of the of the region’s steepest roads.

The event drew more than 75 people, with proceeds benefiting Foxwall EMS and Aspinwall Volunteer Fire Department.

“The weather was gorgeous that day which really helped,” said Tenenini, a Foxwall board member.

“I think a lot of families had a great time at the park afterward and got to know who Foxwall is and how the group is part of the Aspinwall and Fox Chapel communities.”

The inaugural race brought in $5,700, which was split between the two emergency service groups.

First to cross the finish line at the one-mile competitive race and family fun walk were Andrew Byersdorfer, 17, of Cheswick with an impressive time of 6:51 and Erin Sondej, 37, of Tarentum, who broke the tape at 6:54.

There was a modified course for walkers who chose not to tackle Center Avenue.

Both paths emptied onto Fireman’s Memorial Park off Ninth Street, where a festival atmosphere was waiting with food and coffee trucks, a balloon artist, a bounce house and a DJ.

Money will be used for operating budgets by both nonprofit groups.

Foxwall is the primary responder for Fox Chapel and Aspinwall. Situated at 749 Hemlock Hollow Road in Fox Chapel, the group answered 1,500 calls last year.

There are 54 members, about half of whom are volunteers.

Aspinwall VFD firefighters respond to about 560 calls a year with 15 active members. The department recently announced plans to merge with Sharpsburg VFD.