Lobster Loop to Benefit Canton Middle School PTO

On Sunday, Aug. 19 the Parent Teacher Organization hosts the 21st annual Lobster Loop, a 5K race and health walk.

As the organization’s major fundraiser, the event has supported many items not funded through the town’s regular budget and recently that has included many technology oriented purchases. Funds are raised through sponsorships and the admission fees.

Last year, the PTO raised more than $9,500 and was able to fund a portable computer lab, a Smartboard and several other items.

The event is held the same weekend as the Canton Volunteer Fire Co. Inc.’s lobsterfest. While they are not affiliated, both have been a long-time tradition and the race benefits from the other activities, organizers said. ‘

The race draws its share of competitive runners and includes categories and timed runs. It also has a fun element and some use it as a place to gather, run together with co-workers, or simply reconnect with old friends, said Ann Bonini, who for the second year is co-chairing the event with PTO president Kris First.

“It’s kind of a nice community event,” she said.

The race always begins and ends at the Canton Town Green at Route 44 and Dowd Avenue and has a clearly marked route.

Pre-registration is $20 and same-day $25. It begins at 8:30 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 19, with same-day registration starting at 7:30 a.m. The first 325 people to register online receive free T-shirts.

People can register through this link at active.com or print out this form at the Canton Middle School web site and send it in postmarked by Wednesday, Aug. 15.