By Madison Butkus
Hometown Weekly Reporter
The Charles River Center (CRC) recently held their 14th Annual 5K Run/1 Mile Walk at the end of last month. The weather could not have been more perfect for this event, hosting cloudy skies and a cool 68 degrees.
The CRC website went on to state that “this popular community event attracts more than 500 participants each year to support programs at the Charles River Center. The USA Track and Field-certified course begins and ends at the CRC’s Merritt Center. Teams, individual runners and walkers of all abilities are welcome to participate. Participants and supporters are invited back to the Charles River Center for food, drinks, and festivities after the run.”
The race began promptly at 10 am with crowds of runners and walkers eager to take on the course. Perhaps the most challenging parts of this course were the hills, especially the one located right at the finish line. Despite these obstacles, all runners/walkers powered through and gave that extra push to finish up the last hill.
Volunteers could be seen all around the CRC, especially at the finish line cheering everyone on. CRC Marketing and Communications Director, Maureen Moran, was seen snapping photos and cheering on all the participants. When talking with her about this incredible fundraising event, she explained, “This is a yearly event that really focuses on developing and raising funds/awareness to the CRC. There is always great participation by both family members, individuals we support, as well as community members. It is really designed as a community event.”
One of the best parts about the CRC 5K/1 Mile Walk is that all proceeds go on to benefit over 1000 children and adults with disabilities who are served by the CRC. Once everyone had crossed the finish line, there was a party held at the CRC which included live music, food, games and more.
In terms of results, Ricky Mariscal was the top Male finisher with a time of 17:59 and Lauren Reissfelder was the top Female finisher with a time of 21:30. Congratulations to all participants of this year’s event.
For more information about the CRC, please visit their website at www.charlesrivercenter.org.
