The Town of Bethany’s Park and Recreating Department and the Bethany Airport Restoration Committee have partnered to host a 5k road race, “Run for the Airport,” to benefit the airport community center building fund as well as the Roxbury Community College Foundation. The race will also pay tribute to a later member of the Run 169 Towns Society, Mario Hasz, who passed away in September, 2015 at the age of 66 to brain cancer. Mario was part of the Run 169 Town Society whose members aspire to run races in each of the 169 towns in the state of Connecticut. At the time of his death, Mario had only completed 60 towns but other group members pledged to run races in his honor in the remaining towns. On September 23rd, 2016, Diane Hasz, Mario’s widow, crossed the final yards of the race with overall winner, Bruce Christensen (picture attached). Several moments, later holding a stuffed bear (signifying Mario), members of the Run 169 Towns Society completed the race signifying Mario’s journey was complete.
On August 25th, 2017 at the Run for the Airport 5k, the Mario Hasz Courage Award will be given to a runner who embodies the spirit and ideals which Mario held so true before his unfortunate passing. The nominations should reflect an individual who demonstrates courageous action in overcoming adversity while remaining committed to the true love of running. This individual should exhibit the qualities of courage, perseverance, grace, and strength as well as dedication to the sport. Mario's spirit and zest for life, as well as his courage, strength, and achievement, are the qualities for which this award is named. Mario's fight to overcome life-threatening cancer, as well as remain engaged in the sport he so loved, are the reason for this recognition. Please share how the nominee meets the qualities. Nominations should be received by 8/15/17 and should be sent to AdamOsmond14@hotmail.com.
In regard to the 5k race event, awards will be given to the overall top male and female finishers as well as the top 5 finishers in 5 year age groups. Runners and walkers may register at 40 Peck Road, Bethany, CT beginning at 6:15 pm in the town hall parking lot. Registration fees are $25 for adults, $25 for ages 18-12, and $5 for ages under 11. Children and youth under the age of 18 must be registered by a parent or guardian to participate. The race begins at 7:00 pm with the awards and honoree ceremony starting shortly after the last finishers approximately 7:50 pm. Online registration is at: https://runsignup.com/Race/CT/...
