By Julia Beauregard
Hometown Weekly Editor
This year, on Sunday, December 3rd, the Medfield Foundation (MFi) organized the 18th annual Angel Run. Participants of all ages, from both Medfield and other areas, joined in this festive-themed fun-run.
Runners and walkers adorned themselves in Christmas sweaters, holiday PJs, Santa hats, reindeer ears, and Christmas lights, contributing to the playful atmosphere. The racetrack featured various holiday decorations, including reindeer, Christmas lights, and a giant inflatable snowman.
The race commenced promptly at 12:30 pm at Medfield High School, concluding in front of Blake Middle School. Racers eagerly started, creating a vibrant scene with a flurry of orange Angel Run long-sleeved shirts and Christmas-themed outfits. For many Medfield residents, participating as a family has become a cherished tradition, whether for years or just beginning this year. Over 900 people had pre-registered, with over 1,000 participants in total, as some registered on the day of the race to take part in this community event.
Originating in 2006, the Angel Run was established by the family and friends of the late Medfield resident Natasha Domeshek, in memory of the beloved third-grader. Initially organized to raise funds for the "Natasha Domeshek Kindness Scholarship," the race aimed to provide scholarships to Natasha's classmates. Due to the event's success, Natasha's parents, Annie and David Domeshek, were able to award two classmates $20,000 scholarships each upon their graduation in 2012.
In 2012, the Domeshek family entrusted MFi to oversee the race after Natasha's class had graduated. The Angel Run has since become a holiday season staple in Medfield, with the funds raised supporting local families in need.
Annie and David Domeshek continue to participate in the Angel Run each year as racers #1 and #2. This marks their last year as Medfield residents, as they will be relocating out of state next year.
Following the race, runners and their families were invited to the Post Run Party at Blake Middle School, offering bottled water, hot cocoa, games, and a winter wonderland-themed photo opportunity. Natasha's photo was displayed in the Blake Middle School Cafeteria near the bottled water station.
The Angel Run stands as a poignant initiative to honor Natasha Domeshek's memory, leaving participants eagerly anticipating next year's event.
