By Bonnie Adams, Managing Editor
Runners and walkers pose for a photo at the start of the 5K Turkey Trot. (Photo/Maggie Kosovsky)
Northborough – Over 150 runners and walkers came out on the crisp, clear Thanksgiving morning to participate in the sixth annual 5K “Turkey Trot” to benefit the Northborough Food Pantry. In total, $2,300 was raised.
The event, organized by Rita Matraia, started and finished in the Colby Street neighborhood.
Matraia, who is the owner of local business The Core Connection, recalled that the first year the event was held, 30 people participated. Over the ensuing years, the event grew in both runners/walkers and donations. In 2012 there were 100 entries, who raised $1,000.
“[The first few years] we collected food,” Matraia said, “and after a few years and many more people we decided to ask for cash donations to the pantry instead of food to make a bigger and more measurable impact.”
“It has become a nice tradition for many in Northborough,” she added. “I have to say, I was feeling very proud and thankful for the help and support of my husband Michael and his family and my close friend Maggie Kosovsky, who has been instrumental in creating all of the memories through her photography and help as this has grown.”