Area runners, outdoor enthusiasts and supporters of Wilton public schools are invited to hit the road Memorial Day Weekend to raise funds for the Wilton Education Foundation. The 6th annual Get Smart for Wilton 5K, hosted by the Wilton Education Foundation (WEF), will take place on Sunday, May 25 at 9 a.m..
Each Memorial Day Weekend, the organization’s hugely popular endurance race brings area residents an exciting opportunity to come together in a healthy, camaraderie-filled, high energy environment, while giving back to the schools. Now in its sixth year, the event offers something for everyone, from the competitive runner seeking a challenge to active families who want to run/walk a 5k together. This year, more than 300 people will participate, helping to fund WEF’S important mission.
Participants can run competitively or enjoy walking the challenging 3.1 mile course, which combines road racing and trail running on the spectacular cross country trails of Wilton’s schools. Friends, neighbors and classmates cheer runners on from the sidelines; waving signs and pushing decorated strollers. All skill levels and ages are eligible to enter. At stake this year is $100, $75 and $50 in prize money for the top three overall men and women finalists. In addition, commemorative medals will be awarded to the first 50 finishers. Following the race, there will be an awards ceremony and race bags to round out this fun family event. All proceeds raised will be donated to Wilton’s four public schools in the form of technology, music and the arts, and staff development grants.
The event would not be possible without the support and efforts of the fundraiser’s premium sponsors, Moore Center for Rehabilitation, the Wilton Family Y, Smile Art Orthodontics and Bianco Rosso. Mid-level sponsors include The Barre Studio, LYLAS Sol Sisters, Outdoor Sports Center, Steven Mancini Salon, Wilton Cleaners & Tailors, The Walter Schalk School of Dance and The UPS Store. This year’s Mile Marker sponsors are Connecticut Coffee & Grill and Wilton Photo. WEF volunteers organize the event, secure race sponsorships, promote the fundraiser and encourage active community involvement.
“We are enormously grateful for the generosity of our local businesses,” said event co-chair, Lynn DiNanno, a member of the racing group, LYLAS Sol Sisters. “Their support has been nothing short of amazing. Because they know the proceeds of this race directly benefit Wilton’s children and educators, their commitment and enthusiasm has been wonderful. It’s such a great reflection of the true spirit behind this meaningful fundraiser and a great way to start your day with your family and friends; an event for all!”
“I am excited to once again co-chair this super event. It is always such a fun morning for the whole community,” said Kacky Theoharides. “I am always so impressed with the number of runners, especially all of the young kids who participate!”
The entry fee for the Get Smart for Wilton 5K is $25. Pre-registered racers will receive a T-shirt and a post-race bag. The 5K kicks off at the Wilton High School track on Sunday, May 25. Race day registration begins at 8 a.m. and the race starts promptly at 9 a.m. Pre-registration is recommended and will take place on Thursday, May 22 at Comstock Community Center from 9:30-11 am and 5:30-6:30pm. Entry forms can be downloaded from the foundation’s website, at WiltonEducationFoundation.org.
About the Wilton Education Foundation
The Wilton Education Foundation is dedicated to enriching the learning experience for Wilton students by providing ongoing professional development for teachers, the latest in innovative and interactive teaching tools, support for music and the arts, and “beyond the classroom” experiences to provide Wilton’s public school students with the confidence and skills to succeed in college and beyond. For more information on the foundation, its mission, volunteer opportunities, and the many events and programs, please visit www.WiltonEducationFoundation.org.