Whether walking for two miles or running for five, the 37th annual Branford Road Race drew people of all ages for three different events on Sunday. The kids fun run kicked off the community competition, followed by the health walk, and five-mile road race. For many participants, it’s become a Father’s Day tradition.
“It’s my favorite town, and my favorite race , and it gives me a good excuse to spend an extra day with my daughter as well,” said Pete Stoker, Cromwell.
For seven years and counting, Stoker and his daughter Emma have made a dad and daughter date for this race.
“Good community feel to it, everyone’s out for the day, spend time with their dads and get a little exercise while they’re at it,” Emma added.
The Figlewski family’s history with the event goes back to the beginning. Monica Figlewski’s father founded this road race in 1979, and it is also an important holiday tradition.
“I know it is for me. Everyone in town. It’s a great way. People will run with their sons and daughters and everything. The whole family comes out and there’s an event for everyone,” she said.
Since 2005,her father Ray Figlewsi’s battled Parkinson’s Disease.
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“He’s still here on the mic. He now has a co-mic host, but he’s great. He looks forward to this every year,” she said.
“I’m blessed to have so many people here at the race. So many wonderful people helping us in a town as great at Branford,” said Ray.
Since 1979, 76,000 people have participated in the Branford Road Race and it continues to draw a crowd: 3,000 runners and walkers each year.
“You can just tell it’s a really great vibe going around this area, it’s nice,” said Pam Trovato of North Branford, who brought her two sons for the fun run.
“It’s a big family event,” added Blair McKenna of Branford, who ran with her daughter for the first time in the fun run.
The day was about family, fitness, and philanthropy. The proceeds benefited Parkinson’s research, along with three other charities, including Notre Dame High School.
“It’s a great benefit financially, but also for exposure for the school for our admissions efforts,” said Kathy Wielk, a vice-president at the West Haven school.
“The whole thing is about community. The race started for the community and the runners and it continues today,” Ray added.
