The third annual Freedom Fighters 5K will take place on Friday, June 21 at 7 p.m., kicking off at Miller Field. The race, which was initially started to thank Richard Honan for the ongoing care packages that he sends to troops overseas, has become an annual tradition for runners of all ages and levels and raises funds for the care package necessities and shipping costs.
While Honan has been sending boxes filled with comfort food, toiletries and treats to deployed service members for several years, it wasn’t until three years ago that someone came up with an idea to help him raise funds to allocate toward his small-town initiative.
Race Director, Ashley Steeves, thought it was a no-brainer to give back through her event business since her brother had been on the receiving end of Honan’s care packages while deployed with the Marine Corps.
“In the last two years we’ve raised over $3k that has been directly allocated to Honan’s care package program,†said Steeves. “Charity runs like this, have allowed many smaller initiatives like Honan’s to flourish through the years. We welcome and encourage everyone, all ages, and abilities to come out and participate in the run or walk on Friday night. We also highly encourage pre-registration, as the shirts are limited to the first 50 that sign up.â€
While you will see a lot of veterans and first responders, the race is intended for all levels, and is set in motion to benefit a good cause.
“I love the fact that the community comes together on this day to support my military care package program,†said Honan.
Race details:
Packet Pickup/Race Day Reg:
5:30pm-7pm at race site. Packet pickup will be on race day only unless otherwise noted.
Fees:
$25 until 4/30
$30 until 6/20
$35 on race day
Youth Under 15 – $20 (no price increase)
Military/Fire/EMS/Veterans – $25 (no price increase)
Kids Fun Run: $15 (1 lap around the track)
1/2 Mile Walk (2 laps around the track): $20
Course: The majority of the 5k run will take place on the road with a 1/4-mile trail by Lewis Lake. Both the start and finish will be at Winthrop High School. Walkers, strollers and dogs are welcome to participate.
Kids Fun Run: This 1/4 mile (1 lap around the track) is targeted for those 10 and under starting at 6:45pm. This category doesn’t include a race t-shirt.
1/2 Mile Walk: This category is aimed for those who aren’t interested and/or can’t complete the 5k distance and are looking to come out and support the event. This category does include a shirt and post-race food.
Swag: Pre-registered participants will receive a custom race t-shirt unless otherwise noted.
Awards: 1st place overall M/F finishers. Age group prizes to the 1st M/F in each of the following age groups: 16-Under, 17-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70+. (No Double Dipping)
Post-Race Festivities: All participants will be treated to dinner provided by Fuddruckers. You will be requested to choose your dinner selection through the online registration process. **Free food for any veterans that would like to join in the festivities.
Beneficiary: 100% of the net proceeds will be allocated the continuation of the military care package program.
Can’t make the event? But would like to make a contribution? Checks can be made payable Rising Reg LLC and mailed to Rising Reg LLC, co: Ashley Steeves, 147 Sylvan St. #10A, Danvers MA 01923. In the check memo, please write: Donation to Freedom Fighters 5K.
Weather: This event will take place rain or shine! There will be no refunds.
Event Contact: High5EM | 978-594-7050 | [email protected]