The Stuffing the Pantry 5K Run-Walk is once again hosting its early morning Thanksgiving event to assist Open Pantry Community Services in Springfield.
This is the sixth annual 5K race and two-mile walk organized by the group. It will take place on Nov. 23 at 8 a.m. and will begin and end at American Saw-Lenox at 301 Chestnut St.
"The race has become a family tradition for many in our area," said Colleen Cummings, a member of the organizing committee. "We attract serious runners who enjoy a fast, flat course which includes part of the nearby bike path, as well as recreational runners, and families who have made the race part of their holiday tradition. The race has a festive feel to it, with inflatables at the start and costumed runners throughout the pack. It's a great way to start the Thanksgiving holiday while supporting our neighbors in need."
Last year, the race attracted more than 800 participants and raised $32,000 for Open Pantry, according to Cummings.
Fleet Feet Sports in Longmeadow will be timing the race with state-of-the-art chip timing service, and handling online registrations. The store is also a sponsor of the race, provides prizes for winners, and is the site for early pickup of race packets.
Other sponsors include: Lenox; Health New England; Verizon Wireless; In Memory of Rosie; the law firm of Pelligrini, Seeley, Ryan and Blakesley; and Arbella Insurance Foundation. Sponsorship opportunities are still available.
According to Cummings, "The race was conceived by a group of volunteers who had a tradition of running together on Thanksgiving morning. Aware of the needs of Open Pantry, someone suggested organizing a Thanksgiving Day race that would benefit our neighbors who face food insecurity. A volunteer committee was formed, and we reached out to friends, family and the running community. We have been able to donate over $124,500 and nearly five tons of food to Open Pantry over five years."
In addition to Cummings, members of the organizing committee are: Charlie Casartello, director; Ron Berger; Tom Casartello; Rosemary Dellarea; Arthur Grodd; Dave Haryasz; Tom Londo; Doug Mellis; Steve Penna; Gary Rappaport; Amy Ryan; Jim Sadowsky; Katie Sullivan; and Joann Vallera.
Participants can register online or by mail ahead of the race, or at the event on Race Day. Long sleeve T-shirts will be given out to anyone registering before Nov. 1.
The registration fee is $25 plus a food donation ($20 for those 18 and under) until Nov. 9. Registration increases to $30 plus a food donation after Nov. 9. Registration on race day is at 7 a.m.
Race numbers can be picked up on Nov. 22 at Fleet Feet Sports, 680 Bliss Road, Longmeadow, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Numbers also can be picked up on race day.
For more information, visit stuffingthepantry.org.
