Runners are seen getting ready at the starting line for one of the races during the spring event last year. (Photo from Run Walk Southwick)
SOUTHWICK – The 2nd Annual Run Walk Southwick spring event is taking place on May 4 at Whalley Park.
The races consist of a 2.5K run that costs $25 to participate along with a 5K run for $35 and a 10K run for $45. For those that don’t sign up by April 15, the cost for each race will go up $5. People can register until the day of the event. The 2.5K, 5K, and 10K run all start at Noon and the kid’s fun run begins at 11:30 a.m.
For the 10K event, which is a 6.1-mile run, the first-place winner receives $100, 2nd place gets $50, and third place earns $25.
The spring 2018 event marked the first year of the Run Walk Southwick and had about 175 people registered. The goal for this spring’s event is to exceed that number of registrants.
“We’re hoping to increase that number this year,” said Trish Labieniec, the Founder of Run Walk Southwick.
A non-profit event, all of the proceeds will go back to two non-profit organizations. Last year, the proceeds went back to the Southwick Civic Fund and Team Justice.
This year, all proceeds will go to the Enfield Community Cat Project and the MANA (Massachusetts Association of Nurses Anesthetists). The Enfield Community Cat Project works with the town of Enfield to rescue homeless and abandoned cats. The organization provides veterinary treatment to sick and injured cats, and also supports spaying and neutering of cats to help reduce overpopulation and disease.
“They are doing something really great in trying to control the cats,” said Labieniec. “I think that’s a good thing.”
The MANA is the state association of Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists and are focused on the professional interest of nurse anesthetists throughout the state. The association looks at patient safety and promotion of cooperation between anesthetists and medical professionals.
Working as a nurse anesthetist, Labieniec looks forward to the association having more funds to educate the public about anesthesia.
“That will go back out into the community as well,” said Labieniec.
Labieniec added that the 2019 goal for proceeds raised is $5,000, with the hope to give both non-profit organizations $2,500 each.
The Run Southwick event also features local businesses that will be volunteering for the race. According to Labieniec, Full Plate Fitness of Westfield will be running the finish line and doing the timing while Jacquier Realty in Southwick will be organizing the starting line. Other business volunteers include Moolicious, Sweepin it Clean, 2 Bay Machine and Metal, and A Nap with a Nurse Anesthetist. Receiving free advertising by volunteering for the event, Labeniec stressed how critical is to have local businesses volunteer.
“We’re highly dependent on volunteers for these events to be successful,” said Labeniec.
Labeniec added that she’s still looking for more volunteers to assist with the event as well as sponsors. Businesses that sponsor can be a Platinum, Gold, Silver, or Bronze sponsor.
In order to register for the upcoming spring Run Walk Southwick event, sign up on the registration page.
