The Student-Athlete Advisory Committee collaborated with a wide array of USM student organizations to put on the second annual 5k Run for the Children road race on Sunday April 17 in Gorham. The groups were able to raise over $2,000, more than twice the amount they made last year, for the Maine Children’s Cancer Program.
The nearly one hundred participants saw the sun shine brightly and were treated with an ambiance at the race like none other they had experienced in the past. USM Women’s Lacrosse Head Coach and race coordinator Meredith Bickford spoke about the feedback she’s received about the race.
“I’ve been getting one or two e-mails a week telling me how much fun the race was and how the overall atmosphere was the best part,” said Bickford.
The new music department band volunteered their time, adding a little extra flavor to the race. USM’s Circle K had nearly 10 members aid with the race, acting as time keepers and helpful hands.
“The Board of Student Organizations deserves a lot of thanks. They donated $1,045 to get us started. We used the money to put towards fliers, brochures, and promotion,” Bickford said.
USM was not the only force that led to the success of the race. Over 10 local businesses contributed to the event, donating money and gift certificates. USM Men’s Outdoor Track and Field Head Coach Greg Dolbec discussed how the money was used.
“We had random drawings for 32 gift certificates. We also awarded $150 to the top male and female finishers,” Dolbec said.
The Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital produced tee shirts that were given to all those who partook in the event. They also awarded trophies to male and female qualifiers in each of the eight categories, ranging from 14 and under to 70 and older.
Bickford was happy with the turnout for the race, but hopes more USM personnel will be involved in the future.
“I would like to see more departments, staff members, faculty and their families participate in future years. It is only the second year we’ve done it, I think it will be very big in years to come,” Bickford said.
Eight members from USM’s outdoor track and field team participated in the race. Husky senior distance runner Michael Bunker (Bucksport, ME) won the men’s overall and donated the prize money he received to the MCCP.
Dolbec felt the race was great and a lot of fun, and wished the excitement will continue for many years.
“We hope to make the race an annual event. Those who ran and walked had a great time and the volunteers seemed to really enjoy themselves. Also, a lot of companies enjoy being sponsors,” Dolbec said.