POLSON — Standing in front of a crowd of community members that had just participated in the 2011 Live Locally 5K to help raise money for her quest to reach athletic greatness, Polson’s own Melinda Owen told everyone what she intended to do before the 2012 London Olympics.

“I will make the Olympic team,” she said.

Owen, who has been ranked as one of the top 15 pole vaulters in the entire world, was more than grateful last Saturday and fought back tears as Country Pasta, her main sponsor, presented her with a $10,000 check for the second year in a row to help her chase her Olympic dream.

The Mission Valley community added an initial estimate of over $3,000 to that contribution by taking part in the event, the 236 runners amounting to the biggest turnout the event has ever had.

“The community support is what makes Live Locally more than a race,” organizer Sarah Bird, of HealthCare Plus, said.

This year’s event saw Clay Bird and Brittany Katzer win the overall race for the men’s and women’s divisions, and there were plenty of people eager to run with them.

“I would have to say one of my favorite parts of the race is the start, seeing the mass of people lined up anxiously awaiting with smiles as they anticipate the start,” Bird said. “Another highlight of the day was hearing Melinda’s genuine heartfelt thanks to the community for their outpouring of support, and to hear her reiterate that she will make the Olympic team, and that she takes great pride in being from Polson and part of the community.”

Racers were fed pasta, fruit, cookies and cake after the race, and that could be washed down by chai tea, water or coffee. A large group of the racers hung around for the main part of the event — the handing out of awards and prizes while celebrating Owen’s success.

“Our emcee suggested placing a marker on the side of the building at 15 feet, and what a great idea it was,” Bird said. “It was a great visual and really put Melinda’s vaulting ability in perspective.”

The big moment of the post-race ceremony was when Country Pasta owners Fred and Amy Kellog donated a check for $10,000 to Owen.

“I don’t believe there was a dry eye in the crowd, simply remarkable,” Bird said.

Owen doesn’t receive any monetary compensation for her training, and the money she receives from the local community will allow her to meet living expenses while concentrating on pole vaulting.

Owen braclets and hats are still also available at HealthCare Plus in Polson with all the proceeds from the sales going to help Owen.

“We would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who was involved with the Live Locally 5K this year — sponsors, volunteers, donating businesses, participants and spectators,” Bird said. “We are so lucky to live in this amazing community.”