Branford Road Race and Founder Given “Recognition Award”

BRANFORD, CT - At its April 17th meeting, the Branford Economic Development Commission presented Branford Road Race founder Ray Figlewski and the race committee with its “Business Recognition Award.”

The EDC periodically presents the award to a Branford enterprise that is a leader in its field and that contributes to making Branford a better place to live and work.

In 1979 Ray Figlewski, with good friend and running partner Dick Wainwait, organized the first Branford Road Race, attracting 600 local runners.

Forty years later, and with the long term support of many loyal and generous sponsors, the race has grown into one of the country’s biggest and best running events, and over the years has had approximately 70,000 participants.

The annual Father’s Day event now includes a 2-Mile Health Walk and a 1-Mile Fun Run, along with the 5-Mile Run. Both the 1-Mile Fun Run and the traditional 5-Mile race are USATF certified and timed. Last year’s races had nearly 3,000 finishers coming from all over Connecticut and from 17 states across the country. This year’s race, on Sunday, June 16th, is expected to attract even more participants.
Keeping to its mission to make a positive impact on the Branford community, it was decided in 2006 to provide a platform for individuals to contribute and support local charities that impact local citizens and the Branford community. Since then tens of thousands of dollars have been raised to support those efforts, partnering with Connecticut Advocates for Parkinson’s, Camp Rising Sun, Notre Dame High School, and others.