Island Connections’ Run Walk Wag 5K (9/29)

Island Connections’ Run Walk Wag 5K Celebrates Mary Parker with Miles, Smiles & Wagging Tails 

Bar Harbor - Runners, walkers, and their four-legged friends will gather at the Mount Desert Island YMCA on Saturday, Oct. 3 at 9 a.m., for the 9th annual Run, Walk, Wag 5K in memory of Mary Parker who worked as Island Connections’ transportation coordinator. The race is sponsored by Bar Harbor Savings & Loan, a long-time supporter of the non-profit organization which has provided free transportation to seniors and people with disabilities on Mount Desert Island since 1997.

“This race is more than a 5K, it’s a celebration of everything that made Mary so special,” said Executive Director Carissa Tinker. “We are honored to continue spreading her kindness, bright spirit, empathy, and of course, her love for four-legged family members.” As the first official dog- friendly 5K on MDI, the race invites people of all ages and abilities to participate, including well-socialized, on-leash, dogs.

The tradition of post-race pizza at Pat’s Pizza also continues, thanks to the team at Pat’s. Prizes will be given to fastest runners, fastest walker, fastest youth (ages 5-14), and fastest dog.

Advance registration is $25 for adults and $15 for children aged 5 to 14; advance registration ends October 1. Registration on the day of the race is $30 for adults, while the youth registration fee remains $15. Children younger than 5 can participate for free. To register in advance, visit www.islconnections.org and click on the race link.
 

All proceeds directly benefit the services provided by Island Connections. As the need for these services continues to increase, events like this are a way to honor a revered employee while raising vital funds to support this mission, Tinker said. Island Connections is already on pace for another record-breaking year, with rides up 13% over this time last year and demand for grocery transportation nearly doubling.

For more information, call 207-288-4457 or email director@islconnections.org.