Frannie Peabody 5km Race - Ogunquit Maine

A race with drag queens in high heeled sneakers? Only in Ogunquit!

Today marks the 4th annual Frannie Peabody Center 5 kilometer run/walk for AIDS.  The Frannie Peabody center assists over 1500 clients that have AIDS in Maine. Frannie Peabody also sponsors outreach and AIDS testing in Maine. I am proud that the people of  Ogunquit provide so much monetary support for this wonderful agency. Once again the amazing Jimmy Lucibello raised over $8000 in donations.

After 31 years on our cultural landscape, AIDS is still a reality. Many people that attended the race have friends that are living with HIV or AIDS. The virus does not discriminate and education and awareness are essential in today's modern world.

It's also nice to have a 5 kilometer race in my adopted home town; I run some part of this course virtually every day. Race started on the beach, then north on Route One/Main Street (escorted by Ogunquit's Finest) then a right on to Ocean Ave, and then 1.5 kilometers of hard packed sand on Ogunquit beach!

(Running through the village centre.  Picture courtesy of Rick at Moon Over Maine)

This little race packs a lot of schwag.  Yoga stretches, and a goodie bag with t-shirt and snacks. Food from  Julies Provisto and Bread and Roses Bakery. The race ended at the beach with an old fashioned healthy cookout from Nancy's Catering. Entertainment provided by a DeeJay and  3 AIDS Awareness drag queens.Topped off with perfect weather and big waves! It doesn't get much better!

(Ogunquit's Mark Register & Bobby Winn)

I came in fifth overall with a time of 20.24/6.34 per mile. First place winner was elite runner and Ogunquit selectman Bobby Winn, followed by Ogunquit's Bryan Wilson and Mark Register. The race was professionally timed, and once again Bobby Winn set the course and built the starting gate!