Early on Saturday morning, it looked as though the first annual Relay For Life 5K was going to be a washout. The rain had started in earnest the night before, just as the walkers participating in the all-night walk were getting started, and continued all night, coming down in torrents.
Then, just as registration was opening for the 5K at 7:30 on Saturday morning, the rain stopped, the clouds parted, and the sun came out. That was the start of what turned out to be a great first-time event.
Travel Insured International was the Naming Sponsor and took the role seriously. In addition to underwriting the race, they registered all of their employees as runners and walkers. They also set up tents, brought food, and made it a real party.
The course was three loops around Riverfront Park in Glastonbury, and other than running through some puddles, was a scenic and flat course. The first male finisher was Jorian Hoover from Glastonbury and the first female finisher was Elizabeth Preysner from Durham, New Hampshire.
Travel Insured International presented $500 in each of their names to the American Cancer Society. The award for the most enthusiasm went to the group from Marlborough who brought a crowd of runners, walkers and spectators with them and who made the most noise.
All in all, the race was a huge success, exceeding the organizers’ expectations. They are now looking forward to planning the 2015 event.