MONROE, CT — The Victorinox Swiss Army Sprint for Monroe will be a live race again this year, when runners line up at the starting line at Wolfe Park on Aug. 29, but it will also include those participating virtually in a hybrid event, as the town gets through the tail end of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Though the Sprint was totally virtual last year, the strong support of residents and local businesses still shined through for the annual event, which is now in its 29th year.
“We raised $13,000 last year due to sponsorships, donations and participation in our virtual race,” said Amy Primorac, race director for the Sprint. “All of the funds raised were donated to Monroe’s Social Services Department to be used for COVID-19 relief purposes.”
Though participants will gather in person for the Sprint for Monroe again, the event will have a different look than prior years.
The in person field will be limited due to state guidelines. The event will have a “rolling start” to maintain social distance. Participants will be asked to wear masks before and after running. The usual after party for the event won’t be possible, but there will be sealed bottles of water and wrapped snacks to take home, according to the Sprint for Monroe Committee.
“We do plan a raffle, as well as having our trademark, high quality T-shirts,” Primorac said. “Those things won’t change. And the spirit of the event will definitely be there.”
Local businesses interested in sponsoring the event or donating raffle items may contact Amy Primorac at [email protected].
The Sprint for Monroe Committee is hosting this year’s event in cooperation with the town of Monroe and Monroe Parks and Recreation.
Registration will be available starting April 15 online at www.sprintformonroe.com. Registration is $25 for the in person race and $20 for the virtual event. Both in person and virtual participants will receive a race bib and T-shirt. Virtual participants may opt for their race items to be shipped to them after the event.
