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Walkers, Runners In Connecticut 5K Help Ridgewood's CancerCare

FAIRFIELD, Conn. — Hundreds of runners and walkers — and, yes, a few puppies — are scheduled to hit the streets in Fairfield to raise money to fight cancer on Sunday.

Sandra Tripodi (right)

Sandra Tripodi (right)

Photo Credit: Contributed

Poll
Are you planning on turning out for CancerCare's event?
Final Results Voting Closed

Are you planning on turning out for CancerCare's event?

  • Yes, I plan to run or walk.
    80%
  • Yes, and I plan to bring my four-legged friend.
    20%
  • Yes, I plan to cheer a friend or family member on.
    0%
  • No, I have a television marathon planned.
    0%

CancerCare is set to host its ninth Annual Walk/Run for Hope starting at Jennings Beach. Fairfield Selectman Sheila Marmion will officially start the 5K at 9 a.m., following registration and check in, which begin at 7:45 a.m.

The event has grown tremendously since its inception, Sandra Tripodi, CancerCare’s senior director of community engagement, told the Daily Voice on Thursday.

“We were 75-strong nine years ago,” she said. Attendance has swelled since then, and organizers expect 400 registrants this year.

“People really love this course because it's downtown Fairfield,” Tripodi said. “It’s nice and flat. People tend to do really well in this course.”

The event is popular with runners, walkers and canines alike.

“People come with their strollers ... their puppies,” Tripodi said. 

But the race also provides serious runners with a chance to run a USATF-sanctioned 5K course.

“People really love this course because it's downtown Fairfield,” Tripodi said. “It’s nice and flat. People tend to do really well in this course.”

Organizers tweaked the course this year to reduce the number of turns, lessening the chances that runners and walkers get lost, she said.

“They’re having a great time and they’re learning about how important it is to be a part of a community," Tripodi said.

Organizers will also provide a kid’s run, which Tripodi said is one of her favorite parts of the event.

“It’s such a great moment within the context of the event,” she said. “They’re having a great time, and they’re learning about how important it is to be a part of a community.”

Funds raised will benefit CancerCare’s programs. Tripodi said that 91 cents of every dollar goes directly back into the programs, which the organization provides for free to anyone who asks for them.

Both individuals and teams can register in advance here.

Registration fees are a $40 minimum donation per adult (13 and older); $20 minimum donation per child (12 and under); or $10 for the Fun Run only. The event will be held rain or shine, and parking is free.

Founded in 1944, CancerCare provides free, professional support services and information to help people manage the emotional, practical and financial challenges of cancer. 

Headquartered in New York, CancerCare maintains three additional locations in Norwalk, Ridgewood, N.J., and Syosset, N.Y.

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