Run Run Rudolph

    Anyone passing Hollywood Casino St. Louis on Sunday would have thought Santa's reindeer were arriving a little early. 

Participants and their furry friends dressed up in holiday garb.
Groups also created seasonal names for their teams, such as
"Donner's Dashers" and "Santa's Little Helpers." 

    The sound of sleigh bells could be heard as 5K participants tied bells on their shoelaces and set out to fight against arthritis. Since 1985, the Arthritis Foundation's annual Jingle Bell Walk/Run has drawn all ages to its various locations across the country. From costume contests and giveaways to a photo booth and all-you-can-eat pancakes, the Maryland Heights, Missouri participants kicked off the holiday season in style. Add the fact that they beat their fundraising goal of $100,000 with a final total of $105,487, and the race could definitely be deemed a success. 

Attendees enjoyed music compliments of 106.5 The Arch,
entered to win tickets to see the Trans Siberian Orchestra
and Blue Man Group, and could ask questions of sports doctors
who managed booths at the race.

    Arthritis comes in different forms and can affect people of any age. Almost 50,000,000 people, including nearly 300,000 children, are affected by the disease. For more information about arthritis and how you can help, visit arthritis.org - and start planning your Christmas-themed outfit for next year, because the Jingle Bell Run wants you to join in on the fun!