2021 Vernon Mother's Day Dash Going Virtual

VERNON, CT — Vernon's annual Mother's Day Dash road race is going virtual for 2021.

It's the 47th year of the 5K event. The race is a longtime tradition in Vernon and honors and focuses on moms while at the same time encouraging health and fitness.

It also raises money for Vernon’s Send-a-Kid Fund and the Vernon Police Explorers. Last year’s race was canceled because of the coronavirus pandemic.

"Just like we’ve done with other activities such as Winterfest, we are reimagining the Mother’s Day Dash," Vernon Parks and Recreation Director Marty Sitler said. "These longtime traditions are important to people, and it’s up to us to find creative and innovative ways to keep our community engaged."

By going virtual, runners will choose their own route and when they run the race. They’ll then upload their times. Sitler urged all participants to closely follow COVID-19 guidelines to stay safe.

The race averages 300 runners each year and organizers are hoping even more participate because of the flexibility of running the race virtually.

People who would like to run should visit the Vernon Parks and Recreation Department website,
www.vernonrec.org for registration information. Registered runners will have between May 7 and May 9 to run their 5K and then upload their time.

Multiple divisions will be available, including favorites like Mother/Son and Mother/Daughter.

"While running the virtual race, be sure to run in areas that are safe for pedestrians and be sure to obey all traffic laws," Sitler said.

Sponsorship opportunities are available and anyone interested is asked to email parksandrec@vernon-ct.gov for information.

The Send-a-Kid Fund provides scholarships for Vernon children to attend Vernon Parks and Recreation activities. For information about scholarships, please contact the email address above.

The Vernon Police Explorers, who help police direct traffic and keep runners safe during the race, provide a scholarship to a member to attend a police explorer camp each summer.

“The race provides explorers with an opportunity to work with and learn from officers while carrying out the very important task of protecting runners,” said Police Lt. Luke Gallant, who helps coordinate the Police Explorers program. "The financial gift to the explorer post that funds the scholarship is greatly appreciated."