North Branford’s Matt's Mission 5K Brings Out Record Crowd

Sunday was a big day for Lynn Riordan and her family, as it marked the biggest turnout in the history of the Matt Mission’s 5K.

In 2008, Lynn Riordan’s son Matt Picciuto died in a car crash. In 2009, she started the Matt Mission’s 5K, to both remember Picciuto and to raise awareness against teenagers speeding and making risky decisions while driving. 

The event has taken off, cresting on Sunday when the certified 5k had its biggest turnout ever, according to WTNH. All of the participants received a bracelet that reminded them not to speed, according to the news station.

"When they leave here today with a great shirt and a bracelet no need to speed, and I just hope it stays with them as a reminder throughout 365 days a year for the rest of their life. There is no need to speed when you drive and all decisions make good choices in everything that you do," Riordan told WTNH.

Proceeds from the Matt's Mission 5K benefit Matt's Mission Fund with scholarships being the first priority with funds raised from this year's race. Scholarships will be awarded to students in North Branford, Guilford, Branford and East Haven students. 

In addition, Matt's Mission helps those in need attend other events, including summer camp. Riordan said that 18 students were able to attend summer camp in 2012 who would not have been able to do so without Matt's Mission Fund. Funds will also be earmarked for Jerome Harrison's School Night to Care and North Branford High School's Project Graduation 2014.