Race officials are gearing up for the 10th Annual Commodore Hull Thanksgiving Day Road Race.
The race is scheduled for 8 a.m., Thursday, Nov. 24.
Race officials said all 675 spots in the race have been filled.
Click here for a list of runners.
The race starts in Shelton on Canal Street at the Farmer’s Market, crosses into Derby, then doubles back into Shelton.
According to the official race website, the “675 spots have been filled by runners representing 12 different states and the District of Columbia.”
“The list includes defending champion Phil Padilla, as well as Mike Padillia, who won the inaugural race back in 2002 and Keith Sansone who won in 2009.”
“Four-time Women’s Division Champion Kimberly Battipaglia heads the women’s field, which also includes Robyn Hudak who won in both 2004 and 2005.”
Click here to visit the official race website.
Food Drive
The Young Emerging Professionals (YEP) are hosting a food drive leading up to the race.
Members of the group will be collecting non-perishable items and canned goods at the Farmer’s Market on Canal Street Wednesday, Nov. 23 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. They’ll also have a table set up at the race.
YEP members said there is a shortage of food in area shelters due to the recent prolonged power outages, so donations are greatly appreciated.
Click here to visit YEP on Facebook.
Volunteers Of The Year
From the official website:
“Each year the Commodore Hull Race committee selects its “Volunteers of the Year” in special recognition of the role that volunteers play in producing the race.
This year, the Committee is proud to name Allan & Michael Esposito and Signs Unlimited as one award winner. Allan and his team have designed the t‑shirt logo featured each year for every race that has been held.
The Haywood family is being honored for their role is setting up and maintaining the water stop on the course.”
Honorary Race Starter
Valley lawyer and long time supporter of the Commodore Hull Thanksgiving Day 5K Road Race, Dominick J. Thomas Jr., is the Honorary Starter for the 2011 race.
Click here for information on Thomas.
Purpose
The race is designed to promote the history of the two communities and Commodore Isaac Hull, one of the greatest naval leaders in U.S. history. He commanded the USS Constitution during the War of 1812.
Proceeds from the race benefit the Boys & Girls Club of the Lower Naugatuck Valley. More than $70,000 has been raised in previous years, according to Jack Walsh.
