Ortega River Run Brings ESJ Community and Beyond Together

Encouraged by ESJ cheerleaders and pumped up by Episcopal’s pep band, 1,500 runners crossed the Ascension St. Vincent’s Ortega River Run finish line on Saturday, February 25. The 45th annual Ortega River Run once again drew large crowds to ESJ, St. Mark’s Campus and provided entertainment and fun for the entire family. Thanks to generous sponsors, children enjoyed face painting, balloon art, tennis, a Game Truck, sweet treats, fun giveaways, and more at the street fair. Event proceeds benefit the financial aid efforts at Episcopal School of Jacksonville, St. Mark’s Campus. 

“We are grateful to our sponsors, especially the 2023 Title Sponsor Ascension St. Vincent’s, for their support and for helping to make this run a huge success,” said Susan Kwartler, Director of Development, St. Mark’s Campus. “The event also would not have been possible without the 2023 Ortega River Run Committee: Rebekah Hagan (Chair), Jennifer Bechan (Co-Chair), Kayla Earrey, Jessica Ryals, Amanda Trimble, and Melissa Vogt.

Congratulations to the following St. Mark’s Campus students for placing in this year’s run:

• Sterling F. – Five Mile Third Place Female 10 and Under 
• Bryce J. – Five Mile Second Place Male 10 and Under
• Spencer S. – Five Mile Fifth Place Male 10 and Under
• Dylan P. – Five Mile Fifth Place Male 11-13
• Matthew M. – One Mile Second Place Male
• Niko K. – One Mile Second Place Female

Go Eagles!