MYSTIC, Conn. (WTNH) — Thousands of runners laced up their sneakers in Mystic on Sunday morning for the Half Marathon and 10K. The event raises money for the Rotary Club of Mystic. It raised about $30,000 last year, and organizers were hoping to raise at least that much again this year. The money stays in the community.
Brenden Schultek ran the 10K, and he says runners also felt support from the community.
“It’s amazing at the end,” he said. “The first six miles there’s a lot of people. There’s neighbors that have come out, they’re standing there.”
Runners also had support from volunteers, from the start of the race to the finish line. This is the second year the race has been held in Mystic, and it’s already something people look forward to.
“I volunteer because it’s a great way to give back,” said Stacy Brusa, who was volunteering by the finish line. “You’re outside, it’s a lot of fun.”
Runners say the weather made it even better. It was perfect for a race and for runners’ families who came to support them. About 2,000 people ran; the event was sold out.
“The most important thing is these people are healthy and fit, they’re getting fit and they’re accomplishing a goal,” said Beth Shluger, CEO & Executive Director of the Hartford Marathon Foundation.
Many runners achieved their goals, finishing in record time. They say it wasn’t just reaching the finish line that made this race rewarding.
“The finish by the aquarium is pretty cool,” said Schultek. “It looks great, it’s a beautiful course. You can’t beat the sights.”
Participants didn’t just raise money for the community, they also donated about 1,000 pounds of food that will help local families in need.
