Thanks to the work of more than 40 volunteers, 54 sponsors and close to 160 runners and walkers, the WCA’s 15th annual Black Fly Blitz was a resounding success. The region’s favorite 5K run/walk was held on Monday, May 27.
The father-daughter team of Sean (18:39) and Stephanie (20:09) Snow of Dunbarton took home the overall first prize medals for both men and women. Close to 160 runners and walkers finished the course. Gold, silver and bronze medals were handed out to men and women and boys and girls in nine age categories. All results are available online. Congratulations to all.
Held each year on Memorial Day, the Black Fly Blitz is the WCA’s largest fundraiser. Race proceeds support the organization’s many free programs and events. The WCA owns and operates the Red Barn, a community center, and Timmy Patten Park, a beach and playground. In addition, the WCA donates a portion of the race proceeds to the track and cross-country teams at Kearsarge Regional High School.
Every year, members of the KRHS track and cross-country teams assist with the race. Coaches, staff and parents assisting with the event included Peter Angus, Ernie Brake, Brian Pauling, Mary Anne Morcom, and Ed Rehor. Current and former students who lent a hand included: Leslie, Eleanor and Libby Angus, Hunter Burns, Serenity Cole, Mya Dube, Evan Pauling, Avril Prak and Sophia Reynolds.
David Zuger, Wilmot police chief and members of the Wilmot Volunteer Fire Department (WVFD) FAST Squad were on hand throughout the morning to ensure a safe event. The FAST Squad members Scott, Carpenter, Sean Cushing, Dave Herr, Kim Hill, Tom Jenssen, Jonathan Jusczyk, Phil Nicholson, and Stanley Rayno were ready to assist with any medical emergencies. The Wilmot Ladies Aid Society loaned their tables. The Wilmot Highway Department provided road barricades to ensure safe passage for runners at intersections along the course.
At the end of the race, runners and walkers were rewarded with delicious home baked cookies as well as water, oranges and bagels. Cookie bakers included Melissa Aubertin, Jan Baker, Lisah Carpenter, Ann Davis, Chris Jenssen, Jan Sahler and Rachel Seamans.
Once again, Bill Burris set up his wonderful handmade games. He was ably assisted by Bill and Margaret Doody. Lori Meding and Brian McCarthy applied temporary tattoos – in a black fly motif – to the delight of children and adults. In addition to the beautiful weather, live music by Mark Aldrich kept everyone smiling.
Other volunteers included: Hayden and Max Brown,Jenny Santora, Will Santora, Jim Santora, Keith Seamans, and Adam Glass. Marc Davis assisted with sponsor recruitment. Susan Nye photographed the event.
A special thank you goes out to our wonderful sponsors. Fifty-four generous race sponsors ensured the financial success of the Black Fly Blitz. Rayno Construction contributed at the super platinum level. Platinum sponsors included: Echo Communications, Kearsarge Property & Landscaping, Lakes Region Tent & Event, Tom Conway Tree Service and Woods Without Gile.
Sponsoring the event at the gold level were: Clarke’s Hardware, FloorCraft, Frank Anzalone Associates, Gutgsell & Phipps Dentistry, Huckleberry Propane & Oil, InterTown Record, Northeast Delta Dental, Perkins Landscaping, Pizza Chef of Andover, Scott Carpenter Construction and Walker Automotive Services.
Silver level sponsors included: Bar Harbor Bank & Trust, Barton Insurance Agency, Belletetes, Better Homes & Gardens Milestone Real Estate, Byron’s Septic Service, C.A. Miller Plumbing & Heating, Chadwick Funeral Service, Cherry Pond Fine Furniture, Colby Insurance Group, Colonial Pharmacy, Cornelio Law Offices, Four Seasons Sotheby’s Realty, Grounds, Hubert’s of New London, Kearsarge Veterinary Clinic, Marathon Landscaping, Marshall’s Garage, McCrillis & Eldredge, Nathan Wechsler, O’Halloran Group – Keller Williams Lakes & Mountains, Park N Go Market, Philip Nicholson Builder, Pleasant Lake Veterinary Hospital, Spring Ledge Farm, Sugar River Bank, Terhune Family and Walco Mechanical.
Sponsoring the event at the bronze level were: Bow Family Dentistry, Dr. Donna Reed, Dunkin Donuts, Hannaford – New London, Joan Marie’s Beauty Boutique, Market Basket – Warner, Morgan Hill Bookstore, Promotional Solutions, Village Sports and Woodcrest Village.
Our sincere thanks to everyone who helped make the Black Fly Blitz a fabulous event!
Sincerely,
Ann and Marc Davis, race directors, WCA Black Fly Blitz
