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WESTON, Conn. Runners who did not get into the New York City Marathon Nov. 4 will have another option that day at half the distance, a fraction of the cost and a lot less logistical hassle.
The Reservoir Run, a half marathon started by Weston Kiwanis, will be held beginning at Weston High School. The race will benefit three charitable groups, and a significant part of the race will traverse along the Saugatuck Reservoir.
We think it will be a beautiful and challenging course, said Donald Gary, the president-elect of Weston Kiwanis and co-chair of the race with his wife, Phyllis.
The Kiwanis started planning for the race last fall as a tool to raise money for two charitable groups. Race proceeds will benefit Purple Heart Homes and the ELIMINATE Project. Weston Kiwanis Foundation also will share in the race proceeds.
Purple Heart Homes supports wounded veterans returning home from war by providing support in adapting homes. The group also supports veterans with home ownership and with aging veterans who currently own their home.
The military will take care of a lot of physical issues, Gary said. But theres no program to take their homes and provide ready access.
The ELIMINATE Project is a joint venture between Kiwanis International and UNICEF to eliminate maternal and neonatal tetanus. The disease kills 60,000 babies and a significant number of women each year. The project requires vaccines, syringes, safe storage and transportation for skilled workers to provide immunization. There are 34 countries with maternal and neonatal tetanus, primarily in Africa.
Tetanus can be prevented if the mother gets a shot during pregnancy, Gary said. It costs about $1.80, and it can prevent the whole thing.
Weston Kiwanis, which also supports the town food pantry, Warm Up Fund, and a host of community related programs in Weston, also will receive proceeds from the race.
Gary said the race will be capped at 700 runners. Runners can register online, and a race website should be operational shortly. Runners can also register to run for their favorite charities.
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