‘Break the Silence’ third annual run/walk

Support victims afflicted by sexual violence, by lacing up the running shoes and breaking a sweat to “Break the Silence of Sexual Violence” third annual run/walk on Saturday, April 28.
The event raises awareness about sexual violence in Aroostook County,” said Katie Bell, advocate for Maliseet Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Program.
Registration begins at 9 a.m. at the Maliseet Gym on the Foxcroft Road. The entry fee is $5 for children 12 and under; $10 for participants 12-64 and $5 for seniors over 65 (includes a T-shirt). The walk starts at 9:45 a.m. and the run begins at 10 a.m.
“This year our course will be changing,” explained Bell. “Our starting point will be at the Maliseet Gymnasium on the Foxcroft Road and the course will be a five-miler for runners. The walking course will be two miles and we will also be holding our first annual kids race prior to the run/walk.”
An awards ceremony will be held after the race/walk around 11:15 a.m. There will be snacks, water and sweet treats available during that time.
The first five walkers to finish will be awarded, while the runners will be presented awards in the following age divisions for male and female: 14 and under; 15-18; 19-29; 30-39; 40-49; 50-59 and 60-plus. The first relay group to finish the five miles will also be recognized.
In the newly added Kids Race, awards will be presented for both girls and boys, with age categories decided on race day. Participation medals will also be awarded.
Thr event is a collaborative effort with the Maliseet Domestic Violence snf Sexual Assault Program, AMHC Sexual Assault Services and The Aroostook Musterds Running Club.
For more information or to register, call Bell at 532-3000 or e-mail breakingthesilence5k@gmail.com. To mail in a registration send it to: MDVSA Program Attention: Katie Bell, PO Box 1297, Houlton, Maine 04730.