Weekend race will benefit local pets

Published 10:39 pm Wednesday, April 11, 2018

The Riverfront community will bring back a community favorite this weekend under a new name.

The Riverfront Swim Club at 5301 Sports Club Run will host Racin’ for Rescues 5K Run and Walk and 1-Mile Fun Run this Saturday at 9 a.m. Formerly known as the “Turkey Trot” that drew hundreds of citizens in November, this year’s pet-friendly event will once again raise money for the Suffolk Humane Society, just in a different season.

Participants will wind through the beautiful Riverfront community in a loop that begins and end at the swim club. Leashed pets are allowed, along with strollers.

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The fastest male and female for adults and children in the 5K will be awarded, along with the first pet to cross the finish line. The fastest male and female child ages 8 and under in the 1-mile Fun Run will also be awarded.

There will be a continental breakfast and tables for vendors and sponsors. Race proceeds will go to the Suffolk Humane Society, with a goal of raising more than $7,000 this year. The society receives no city, state or federal funds and relies on these donations for services like spay and neuter programs and adoption events.

“The team and I just think it’s a great cause, and it’s nice to be able to give back and help a local charity,” race organizer Pam Sweet said in a phone interview.

The registration fee on race day is $20 for adults and $17 for children. Call 483-3906 for more information. Those unable to participate may still make a donation to the humane society by visiting SuffolkHumaneSociety.com.