COEUR d'ALENE - More than 400 people huddled together for warmth behind Michael D's restaurant in Coeur d'Alene Thursday morning, anticipating the start of Tesh Inc.'s annual "Hangover Handicap."

Frances Huffman, Tesh CEO, said spirits were high among the 435 registered participants as they embarked from the restaurant on a scenic 5-mile round-trip course along Lake Coeur d'Alene.

"I was apologizing for the frigid weather this morning but everyone told me it just adds to the excitement," Huffman said. "Everyone was very happy and excited to be there participating."

Runners, walkers, dogs on leashes and babies in strollers all joined the fun and Huffman said several of the participants were even wearing shorts.

"Some of the people who participate are very serious runners," Huffman said. "We had one person finish the course in 30 minutes."

Huffman estimated that, by 10 a.m. Thursday, the event collected at least $8,000 for Tesh Inc. The total could be much higher, she said, due to extra donations and racers purchasing additional shirts once they finished the course.

Volunteers were also selling shirts from each of the 38 years that Tesh Inc. has been holding the "Hangover Handicap," Huffman said, which could add to the total as well.

The funds raised during the event aid the nonprofit in offering support services - life and employment skills training, job coaching and counseling, and child development services - to Kootenai County residents with disabilities.

"A big part of what we want to do is to provide the training and services people need in order to participate in the community," Huffman said. "Our way of giving back to the community is empowering people with disabilities to live more independently."

Huffman thanked all the volunteers who made the event possible for their dedication and commitment. She also had a message for those who braved the frigid temperatures and participated in the run.

"Thank you so much for supporting us," Huffman said. "It means a lot to a lot of people in this community."