Thousands of Santas build up a sweat in Las Vegas

As four women in Santa suits gathered for breakfast and mimosas at Rachel’s Kitchen on North Las Vegas Boulevard, dozens more Santas scurried by outside.

“It’s for charity and it’s a good opportunity for us girls to get together,” Las Vegas resident Ellie Gallucci said at the 10th annual Great Santa Run on Saturday morning.

The event, a benefit for Opportunity Village, kicked off on Las Vegas Boulevard and Carson Avenue and ended on Ogden Avenue between Third and Fourth avenues.

As the sun beamed down, thousands of Santa Clauses broke a sweat during the 5K run and 1-mile walk on the 68-degree day. That’s a little unusual for the walkers, who normally are chilled even with the Santa suits on.

The average temperature for this time of year is 58 degrees, according to the National Weather Service office in Las Vegas.

“My first walk was hot, we were peeling off layers, and the second one was cold — you couldn’t keep warm,” Gallucci said. “It’s a beautiful day.”

During the two-hour event, celebrity appearances included Wayne Newton, Holly Madison and Olivia Newton-John as well as Mayor Carolyn Goodman who was flanked by several Chippendales entertainers.

Las Vegas resident Laura Sherwood walked the course with friend Stephanie Haas, who was participating in the Great Santa Run for the second time.

“It’s two-fold because you’re contributing to a great cause and getting some exercise,” Sherwood said. “It also has a festive holiday feel as opposed to other races.”

“Events like this bring life back to our community and show what a great place it is to live,” Haas said of Las Vegas.

Opportunity Village, which was founded in 1954 and boasts four campuses across the valley, is a not-for-profit organization that serves nearly 3,000 citizens with intellectual disabilities and their families throughout Southern Nevada. The organization provides vocational training, community employment and day services as well as support.

Lori Kunick of Las Vegas said the fun and festive atmosphere was one of the best parts of the event.

“It’s a fun thing to do and everyone’s happy,” she said. “It definitely qualifies as one of the top events in Las Vegas.”

Kunick added that the event also helps spread the word about Opportunity Village.

“It provides great awareness for the charity,” said Lori Kunick of Las Vegas. “For me, it also brings a lot of Christmas spirit. Living in Las Vegas without snow for Christmas can be different and I think it helps get people in the spirit.”

Keith Davis said he prepared for the Santa Run by running during the week and participating in various 5K races throughout the year in Las Vegas.

“It’s good to keep healthy and to support Opportunity Village and the things they do,” he said.

Davis was partaking in the Santa Run for the fourth time.

“It’s a great way to meet people and come together as one,” he said. “This is the season of giving.”

Contact Ann Friedman at afriedman@reviewjournal.com or 702-380-4588. Find her on Twitter: @AnnFriedmanRJ.