5k Donut Dash To Benefit NYFS
5k Donut Dash To Benefit NYFS
By Kendra Bobowick
He is running with a goal in mind this year â $2,500. Michael Porco, Jr, and members of Porcoâs Karate Academy are coordinating their Donut Dash again this year to benefit Newtown Youth & Family Services ( NYFS), with a few changes.
Rather than âdashingâ from the karate academy on Church Hill Road in Sandy Hook center and running up the hill to Andreaâs Bake Shop on the Corner of Church Hill Road and Queen Street, Mr Porco will run a 5k dash, which has an open registration this year. Entry fees, donations, and collections made on the morning of June 25 will all go to the NYFS.
Mr Porco opened registration to the public, âinstead of to just a select few,â he said. âHopefully, weâll raise more money for Newtown Youth & Family Services, and we thought it would be more fun this way.â
The 5k will begin at the academy, head to the midpoint and turn around at the high school, and return to the academy, which is also the finish line. In keeping with the raceâs name, runners must eat a doughnut at the high school, and receive a sticker as proof. A water station will also be at the high school.
Mr Porco said, âThe 5k is a good distance for families and a good challenge with a pit stop in the middle. Itâs a safe route and the high school is a safe place to stop.â
He also wanted to state his goal this year. âI hope to motivate people to get out [and participate],â he said.
Registration will be at the academy at 113 Church Hill Road. Registration and arrival time begin at 8:30 am. Preregistered participants can arrive at 9 am. The race begins at 9:30 am. Preregistration is encouraged. Entry forms are available at Andreaâs Bake Shop, Porcoâs Karate Academy, and will be available the day of the race. Checks should be made out to Newtown Youth & Family Services.
Promoting the fourth annual event earlier this month were Andreaâs Bake Shop owner Tony Posca, karate academy instructors Keith Baxter and Amelia Schwartz, and event organizer Nancy Gilbert. Helping them hold a karate academy banner outside the bakeryâs window was Mr Poscaâs employee Carson Leon-Gambetta. Hoping to involve residents as more than spectators and supporters this year, Ms Gilbert said, âAnyone can enter.â
Prizes will be awarded to runners. First place includes a free month of karate at Porcoâs Karate Academy, a $20 gift certificate to Andreaâs Bake Shop, and a coupon for a free case of Poland Spring water. Second place earns a Porcoâs T-shirt, $10 certificate to the bakery, and a coupon for a free case of Poland Spring water. Third place wins a coupon for a free case of Poland Spring water.