Scenes from last year’s FBE Dan Scharfman 5k – a wicked fun race. (Photo courtesy of Belmont Patch.)
October is almost upon us and that means that Belmont’s new fall classic, the Dan Scharfman Memorial Run is just around the corner. Sponsored by the Foundation for Belmont Education, with support from a wide range of local businesses. More than 500 runners signed up to do last year’s race and this year is shaping up to be even bigger.
Register now for the run if you haven’t already done so, by visiting the official web site for the race over at the Foundation for Belmont Education, if you want to learn more. If you’re ready to sign up, you can do so at Racewire.
Dan was a dear friend of mine – a School Committee member, father, husband, running buddy. He was a Renaissance man in the truest sense of the word: a talented choir singer, a passionate outdoorsman, a marathoner and ultra marathoner – and a volunteer for all manner of causes. This race last year raised more than $20,000 to fund investments in technology and professional development for teachers – two of Dan’s passions as a member of Belmont’s School Committee.
Running the race is a great way to remember Dan and help carry forth his legacy. It’s also a lot of fun. This year’s event includes both a 5K race and a companion 2K (1.24 miles) run that’s perfect for the whole family. The proceeds from the races fund the Dan Scharfman Education Innovative Fund for the Foundation for Belmont Education’s Innovative Teaching Initiative which you can read about here.
The race this year will be held on Sunday, October 4th at 9:00 at the BHS track. People who register early will receive special gifts, including a race shirt and a great Polar water bottle – but sign up early to save yourself some money, and to make sure you get your hands on the cool race swag! Day of registration is available (of course) starting at 8am at the Belmont High School track.
Finally: if you want to support the cause, but can’t run this year, The Foundation for Belmont Education is looking for volunteers that help make the race a success each year by setting up the event, helping monitor the course during the race and doing clean up. We have an online sign-up form where you can register by following this link.
Finally, if you’re not going to be around, you can make a personal donation to the race fund. This link will take you to a web page that lets you donate directly.
I look forward to seeing you all there!
— Paul
Run the Dan on October 4th!