Pine Tree Camp’s fall foliage wasn’t the only thing showing off on Saturday, October 22nd. One hundred fourteen runners, walkers, wheelchair-rollers, and even a team of dinosaurs showed their colors at the first ever Flutie 5K at Pine Tree Camp.
Racers were treated to a trail runner’s dream. This woods and waterfront trail was wide and well-packed with very few rocks and roots so everyone could keep their eyes on the scenery instead of their feet. This scenic trail took runners through the woods, along the waterfront, and around many special places where overnight summer camp memories have been made since camp opened in 1945.
Pine Tree Camp’s entire 285-acre campus is fully accessible and designed for children and adults with disabilities to experience barrier-free access to the outdoors, making it ideal for people of all abilities and ages to take part in a 5K. Runners ranged in age from 10 to 72, and, together with the Flutie Foundation and event sponsors, raised more than $10,000 to help Maine people with disabilities experience Pine Tree Camp.
Fall is often considered the best season for running, and the Flutie 5K at Pine Tree Camp is sure to become a favorite autumn course for locals and a destination run for leaf peepers looking to explore off the beaten path.
Teams included the Colby College Running Club, Madison Elementary School, Waterville Area Women’s Club, and Team Addie Mae. The top fundraiser was Angela Friend from Madison Elementary School. One hundred percent of funds raised will help ensure Maine kids and adults with disabilities can experience Pine Tree Camp year-round regardless of their ability to pay the tuition.
Sponsorship generously provided by: Hometown Heat Pumps, Central Maine Motors, Pike Industries, Northern Light, VIP Tires, Maine State Credit Union and Realty of Maine.
Food donated by: Thompson’s Orchards, Engine 5 Bakehouse, Power Crunch Protein Bars and Hannaford. Décor donated by Wallingford’s Fruit House.
Prizes donated by: Governor’s Restaurant and Bakery, Cushnoc Brewing Company, The Bait Shed Restaurant and Bar, Coffee by Design, Maine Mariners, Eastern Mountain Sports, Amato’s, Maine Foodie Tours, Gelato Fiasco, Treworgy Family Orchards, Gifford’s Ice Cream and Holy Cannoli.
