Schools

20th Annual Lobster Loop Set for Sunday

Event raises money for Canton Middle School PTO; provides social interaction.

While the 5K Lobster Loop draws its share of competitive runners, it’s often a chance to catch up with friends, see old acquaintances and learn a little more about the town.

“For most it tends to be a casual, social event,” said Sheryl Loureiro, president of the Canton Middle School Parent Teacher Organization.

And it’s no accident that the PTO fundraiser takes place the same weekend as the Canton Volunteer Fire Company’s Lobsterfest, an event that draws many to town and takes place before kids return to college.

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Started out of a need to raise money for some sports uniforms, the Lobster Loop remains the PTO’s biggest fundraiser, typically bringing in between $9,000 and $13,000.

“It’s a huge amount for what CMS needs,” Loureiro said.

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The money is used for various things, including computer headsets and field trips. Last year, the PTO was able to keep guest speakers coming to the school and help some needy eighth-graders fund the annual trip to Washington, D.C.

“It’s kind of all over the board,” Loureiro said.

The year, is the 20th annual Lobster Loop 5k road race and non-competitive health walk will be held in the usual place on the Canton Town Green, at the corner of Route 44 and Dowd Avenue on Sunday, Aug. 21.

What could be different this year, however, is the course. With much of Dyer Avenue, a key portion of the course, under construction, it remains to be seen if the road will be finished in time, especially with the rains this week.

Currently, options are being discussed, Loureiro said

Loureiro has served many roles for the race and been part of many such challenges. It’s a lot of work, but raises funds and is a fun event, she said.

“The day of the race is fun and people generally enjoy it,” she said.  

This year Ann Bonini and Kris First are organizing the event.

Aug. 17 was the last day for the pre-registration fee of $20 at Active.com or through mail-in registration. Mail-in registration forms can be obtained on-line at CantonSchools.org, under Canton Middle School. Forms are also available at Collinsville Savings Society, Union Savings Bank (Canton location) and the Canton Middle School Office. Registration fee day of the race is $25.

Registration was to open at 7:30 a.m. Sunday; the race was scheduled to start at 8:30 a.m.

The traditional Gold, Silver & Bronze medals for 18 categories will be awarded, along with four first-place Trophies.

For more information, contact Bonini at ambonini@comcast.net or 860-693-2676 or First at brianfirst1@comcast.net or 860-693-8188.

Wheels (bikes, strollers, roller-blades, etc.) and animals (dogs, cats, birds, etc.) are not allowed in the race.


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