The Roxbury community came together in the spirit of giving for the seventh annual Roxbury Thanksgiving Day Charity Race, making it a memorable event for participants and spectators alike. The race, a 3.1-mile loop starting and ending at the Everett B. Hurlburt Community Park, was not only a test of endurance but also a successful charitable outreach, raising $1,085 for the Roxbury Scholarship Foundation and the Roxbury Ambulance Association. Apart from showcasing athletic prowess, this event highlighted the community’s commitment to supporting its own, with Alex Hancock taking the lead among the racers, and notable mentions to Brady Clarke and Melina Kersten for their strong performances.
The event, organized by the Roxbury Road Runners Club, saw impressive community support, including local sponsors and volunteers who ensured its success. The race fostered a sense of community spirit with participants ranging from seasoned athletes to local enthusiasts, all coming together to support a good cause. The top male and female finishers were awarded handcrafted wood medallions by Dave Harvey, a gesture that added a personal touch to the rewards. With 56 participants crossing the finish line, the race not only demonstrated competitive spirit but also brought the community closer, proving that Roxbury runs for good.
In the men’s division, Alex Hancock led the pack with an outstanding time of 17 minutes and 7 seconds, showcasing his athletic excellence on the Roxbury course. Following Hancock, was Brady Clarke with a strong finish at 18 minutes and 43 seconds, and not far behind, Sean Christiansen rounding out the top three with a time of 19 minutes and 33 seconds. These top finishers set the pace for an exciting competition among the male participants, embodying the spirit of resilience and competition that the Roxbury Thanksgiving Day Charity Race stands for.
On the women’s side, Melina Kersten was the first to cross the finish line, making her mark with a time of 24 minutes and 32 seconds, taking the 18th place overall. Julia Benivegna was hot on her heels, securing the 19th overall spot with a time of 24 minutes and 38 seconds. These leading women showcased strength and determination, inspiring many with their performances. With participants from various age groups and backgrounds, the race results highlight not only individual achievements but also the collective strength and commitment of the Roxbury community towards fostering health, sportsmanship, and charity.
