Ogunquit Beach & Bay 5k run for AIDS. Frannie Peabody Center

“Success isn't how far you got, but the distance you  travelled from where you started.”                                     
                                 -unknown

(photo courtesy of Jordan.Freedman@gmail.com)

One thing that always amazes me about Ogunquit is how philanthropic people are. There are countless fundraisers, benefits and organizations that are always competing for donations in this little village. This weekend was no different.
I participated in the  "Beach & Bay 5k Run & Walk for AIDS" sponsored by the Frannie Peabody Center. This organization does amazing work in Ogunquit and in Maine. The center provides services with people with HIV or AIDS.
Ogunquit's comedian  Kris Francis was the Master of Ceremonies at today's event. Before he officially started the race, he asked all participants "to visualize and focus on someone who has died of AIDS or HIV".

This certified race was at 11 am this morning on Ogunquit beach. Weather was great, with a modest headwind coming from the south.
Ogunquit's elite runner, Bobby Winn came in first place (again) with a time of 17.14 minutes.
The race is very inclusive with 165 runners, walkers, drag queens and even a person with a wheelchair ( which in not easy in the sand!),


Many people donated there time, money and inkind services. Normand of Maine Street had the barbecue for runners and  walkers,  Julies Provisto had great coffee and other treats. Food was provided by many of the local bakeries and restaurants.

Winner, Bobby Winn and Mark Register.

Mark is a director for the Frannie Peabody Center. Mark oversees the development aspect and assists with the planning the 5k Beach and Bay with Ogunquit's AIDS activist Jimmy Lucibello. Lucibello stated that the event raised over $21,000. Amazing for such a small town; and that does not include the inkind donations or other services provided.

I came in 7th with a time of 22.03 almost one minute off from last year's time. Not my best race, but then again, I am running on Ogunquit beach amongst friends for a worthwhile cause......