Race Around Waltham Series returns for 2019

WALTHAM, MA (January 9, 2019) – After taking a reprieve in 2018, the Race Around Waltham (RAW) Series is returning to Waltham. The competitive race series, generously sponsored by AFC Urgent Care, Marathon Sports, and Health & Safety Services of New England, will track runners, walkers and volunteers in six Waltham 5Ks, all which benefit local charities. Participants who run, walk, or volunteer (any combination) in all of the six races will earn prizes and city bragging rights.

The RAW Series is free to enter and was created in 2012 by Waltham residents Tim and Kathleen Irving as an effort to increase race participation (especially youth), volunteerism and community involvement. Tim is an avid runner who has participated in other race series throughout New England and Kathleen is an “occasional jogger” and race volunteer. Both know the tremendous amount of time and effort that goes into organizing a race and wanted to support the local groups raising money for great causes.

In 2017, roughly 150 qualified for prizes, covering over 4000 miles of Waltham streets and trails, and generating $35,000 for charities charity through the entry fees. The youngest competitor was 8 years old, and the oldest was 72, with 27-year old Rodin Godoy claiming the top male runner prize, and 13-year old Ella Wozek finishing as the top female.

“Waltham is a runner-friendly community. Races get strong support from local businesses, community groups and city departments, and we’ve got the nationally renowned Waltham Track Club and the Waltham Trail Runners group.” said Tim Irving. “Through the re-start of the RAW Series, we hope to continue to attract runners from all over New England, support and grow local businesses, and foster more volunteer participation. Anyone, at any age, and any ability is welcome and encouraged to participate.”

The 2019 RAW Series will include following events:

* April - JB Blastoff, April 7, finishing at John Brewer’s Tavern and supporting families affected by cancer
* May -- Moody Street 5K, finishing on Moody Street and benefitting Waltham Secondary Schools
* June – St. Jude 5K, benefitting St. Jude School
* September – Prospect Bandit Run benefitting the Waltham Track Club
* September – Shopper’s 5K, finishing at Shopper’s Café and benefitting Waltham Partnership for Youth
* October – Western Greenway 5K finishing on the Western Greenway Trail and benefitting the Waltham Land Trust

And while the Series will only track participants in these six events, it will use its social media platforms to promote all races and other community events Waltham. RAW Series participants can earn “bonus points” toward additional swag, for their support of local events.

More information about the 2019 RAW Series can be found at www.rawseries.org.

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