MONROE, CT — The COVID-19 outbreak may have postponed this year’s Sprint for Monroe, but it did not stop the annual event, which will be held virtually from Aug. 23-30.
Now in its 28th year, the Victorinox Swiss Army Sprint for Monroe, which routinely attracts hundreds of runners, walkers and volunteers to Wolfe Park, will be held online.
Participants will run on their own, then report their times in either a 1K, 5K or 10K distance via an online portal. Registration is $15 and can be done online at sprintformonroe.com.
“We chose to add the 1K and 10K as options for people who might either find the 5K distance a little too challenging or not challenging enough,” said Amy Primorac, race director for the event. “This allows everyone, of nearly any ability, to participate. The 1K is a great option for small children, since we were unable to hold our usual Race4Chase Kids’ Fun Run this year.”
Last year’s event raised over $22,000 for local causes, including the Monroe Food Pantry, Project Warmth Monroe and the Chase Michael Anthony Kowalski (CMAK) Sandy Hook Memorial Foundation to name a few.
This year, the Sprint for Monroe Committee decided all funds raised will be directed to the town of Monroe’s Social Services Department and COVID relief efforts.
This year’s registration fee was reduced to $15. Registration includes a T-shirt, virtual downloadable bib and finisher’s certificate.
“We made a conscious decision to try and make the event as accessible as possible by reducing the registration fee,” Primorac said.
“We are so grateful to Victorinox Swiss Army, Newtown Savings Bank, Connex Credit Union and our many other local sponsors who stepped up this year to support Monroe and those in need within our community,” she added. “During these challenging times it is truly heartwarming to see so many come together to lift up those who need help.”
Those interested in social distancing for Monroe can visit sprintformonroe.com to sign up.
