By Christy Wolyniak, News Intern

(Click on photo to start slideshow)

Green Lake was greeted with a flurry of pink and red as nearly 3,100 runners participated in the sixth annual Love ‘Em or Leave ‘Em Valentine’s Day Dash on a chilly, yet clear Saturday morning.

Kris and Chad Lukkarila commented said the run was the warmest 5k they have done in three months.

“People like Valentine’s Day. There are some good costumes out here,” said organizer Gary Slettebak.

“We try to produce an event that people will really enjoy and will tell their friends about. One of our goals is to provide unique-style running races at a level that people enjoy.”

PCC vendors provided morning treats for participants while loud pop music pumped good vibes into the park for an upbeat, positive atmosphere.

“I thought [the race would] be fun. What other to do on a day of love than run with people you love,” said runner and Flash Mob member Andy Swanson.

Newly engaged as of two weeks, Aaron Right was Mr. Right for runner Liz Clark. His friend and soccer teammate, Sal Huerta came up with the idea to make hoodies reading “Team Kitty” and “Team Liz” to support their significant others.

“It’s a lot easier to cheer from the side. [The girls] come to our games, so we’re out to support them,” said Right. “If you can’t be an athlete, you might as well be an athletic supporter,” joked Right.

For Clark, these races are a reminder of a healthy Seattle community.

“It’s exciting to be included,” she said. “There is an exponential explosion of people here. It’s one of my favorite sounds to hear 1000 feet running on pavement, or under the tunnel. It’s inspiring.”

This race was not just for couples, although 30 percent of runners participated in the two-person team competition according to organizer Gary Slettebak. The winners for best costume received a one-night stay at the Watertown Hotel.

Four friends donned their pink and red complete with elaborate red feather boas and heart-antennae headbands.

“What’s better than wearing pink and red and doing something with friends?” said first-time 5k runner, Desiree Dyck.

“I brought three virgins,” said Chris Odachowski, who runs other Seattle races and convinced her girlfriends to join her in this 5k.

Winning was not everything for people. Most enjoyed the atmosphere and the chance to get outside.

“I like the outfits and the Valentine’s Day spirit. [Looks like] love is in the air,” said participant Nate Wilson.

Terri Beringer and Chanda Ford played up their pink with matching sparkle skirts, pink and white feather boas, and fuzzy pink tiaras. “I say leave ‘em! Girls just want to have fun. We plan on having wine and chocolate after the race,” said Beringer.

Although sporting matching boxers with red kisses, runner Justin Reid came unwillingly.

“She drug me! But I figured, if I’m going to come, I might as well dress the part. I don’t wanna look like a professional runner, I’m just a guy forced to run,” he said.

Kathleen and Doug Hall made a goal to place in the top five in their age category. “The 65-90 age category,” joked Mr. Hall. Among others, this race provided an opportunity for the Halls to do something fun and active. The Valentine’s Day Dash is their second race together.

For mother of two, Linda Rackner, the Love ‘Em or Leave ‘Em race was a way her and her daughters spend time together.

“It’s our thing to do together - just us girls. Hopefully we can continue this tradition into high school,” she said. Gabrielle, 10, and Marissa, eight, were excited about the race and said they enjoyed the costumes.