AHOSKIE – Whether it was pounding the pavement or pounding a fuzzy little ball, it was protecting animals that took center stage here the weekend of June 16.

Hertford County PAWS (Protecting Animals Worth Saving) sponsored its inaugural “Run for Their Lives” fundraiser June 16-17. The event featured a 5K run, a 1-mile fun run/walk and a tennis tournament.

While awards were handed out to the victors, the big winner was PAWS, a non-profit, all volunteer organization dedicated to improving the lives of animals. PAWS operates a dog/cat adoption shelter at the Hertford County Animal Pound.

“Our accomplishments include a rescue and adoption program, animal shelter improvement, public education and promotion of spaying/neutering and vaccination,” PAWS volunteer Amy S. Brown said. “Volunteers and foster families are always needed.”

The proceeds generated from both events go to support the efforts of PAWS.

The 5K Run was sanctioned by the Outer Banks Running Club. The winners were Pete Gibson of Murfreesboro (male) and Erin Kendrick (female) of Ahoskie. Ryan Stalcup of Eure and Sue Eure of Clayton respectively captured the male and female runner-up honors.

Hennie Larabee of Ahoskie captured first place in the 1-mile fun run/walk.

In tennis action, Frank Britt was crowned the men’s singles champion with Heath Britt earning the reserve champion title.

Ann Savage won the women’s singles title while Linda Harrison captured the reserve championship.

In men’s doubles, Giff Daughtridge paired with Mark Jones to claim top honors. Justin Freeman and Justin Burden teamed to capture the doubles reserve title.

James Pugh and Laura Brown were crowned as mixed doubles champions.

For more information about PAWS, call 252-356-4223.