Over 1,200 runners are expected at the third annual Matt’s Mission 5K, which takes place on May 20 at 9:30 a.m. and benefits . Participants can run or walk the certified 5K (3.1. miles) that starts and ends at North Branford High School. The rolling course passes residential neighborhoods, farmlands and fields before finishing on the track at North Branford High School.
Runners and walkers can enjoy live music at the start and finish line from local band, Sudden Impact, as well as bagpipes and drums by the New Haven County Firefighters Emerald Society. Also performing on the course are local musicians Chuck DeFilippo and Mike Rebeschi. After the race, participants and spectators can expect a great post-race party featuring delicious food from local restaurants and family-friendly activities, such as face painters and balloonists. Make sure to bring the entire family to enjoy a fun day and to support Matt’s Mission Fund.
The race is in honor of of North Branford, who died in a car accident on May 23, 2009. The proceeds of the race will benefit Matt’s Mission Fund. The goal of the fund is to help North Branford and shoreline students in need. From winter coats to school supplies, the fund provides relief to students and families in the community. Last year’s event raised $37,000 for the fund and there was an outpouring of support from sponsors, participants and the local media. In the past two years, the event has raised nearly $70,000. The 2012 event is on pace to raise a record amount of money for charity and local organizations. Matt’s Mission Fund will now award scholarships to students not only from North Branford but to students in Guilford, Branford and East Haven.
Find out what's happening in North Branfordwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
JB Sports LLC, coordinator of the Stratton Faxon New Haven Road Race and Branford Road Race, coordinates the event with Lynn Riordan. Participants can register now at www.jbsports.com or call (203) 481-5933 for more information. All pre-registered runners and the first 200 raceday entrants receive t-shirts. Awards are given to the fastest runners in numerous age categories.
The race is supported by large contributions from Yale-New Haven Shoreline Medical Center, Lisa & Gene Goodmaster, Mansir Printing, LLC, North Branford Police Union, North Branford Fire Department, Precision Computer Services, Stop & Shop, Tilcon Connecticut, Totoket Times, Walt’s Auto Body, Webkinz Foundation and WPLR. Also supporting the event are Beechmont, LLC, Calamita Family, Frank J. Forgione, Esq., Fusco Corporation Builders, Gary Jenkin’s Films, Keenan Funeral Home, Mark Goodmaster, Mike Rebeschi, New Haven County Firefighters Emerald Society, New Haven Sign Company, LLC, Olive Garden Italian Restaurant, Planet Fitness, Rae’s Driving School, Sudden Impact and The Gladys Thomas Trust.
