Via Community News Service, a University of Vermont internship, for the Other Paper
SOUTH BURLINGTON – Upbeat music boomed as runners set off on an unusual course. They pushed forward onto an airstrip at Burlington International Airport that is normally used for small engine aircraft, medical emergencies and cargo transportation.
Instead, it was temporarily turned into a landing-free zone for the Fly By 5K race on Oct. 3.
Several hundred people entered the 8.a.m. race, sponsored by the City of South Burlington and the airport. A block party on Airport Drive followed with a bouncy house, face paint, food trucks and games.
Leading the runners through the course was Aero the Griffin, the airport’s mascot, riding in the back of a truck.
Turnout for the second annual race was strong and registrations filled up in three days, said Adam Matth, director of the South Burlington Recreation and Parks Department.
“In total we have 42 towns and cities represented, and that’s from Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, New York, Florida, and California.”
Next year he hopes to double participation.
The fastest time of the day went to Silas Talbot, who finished in 17 minutes and 4 seconds, according to the posted race results. The event generated 345 pounds of food for the South Burlington Food Shelf, with participants bringing canned goods and other non-perishable items.
Miranda Birkett showed up to the 5K with her personal trainer Lily Mead, both from Bristol. Birkett has been running 5K and 10K races as part of a three-year fitness journey. Her Fly By time turned out to be her personal best.
“She’s doing amazing. A lot of 5Ks, a 10K, so finally our first one together,” Mead said.
The mood at the event was supportive and energized. People who brought food qualified for raffle tickets to win admission to local sporting events and museums in addition to helping to feed their neighbors.
Food donations are vital to the South Burlington Food Shelf, especially now, said Peter Carmolli, executive director of the nonprofit. “In a city of 20,000 people, over 4,000 of them have come to the food shelf. Because food prices are astronomical right now.”
The race earlier this month is not the only collaboration between the city and the airport.
“The Fly By 5K is the biggest event but we actually host our farmers market on the airport property,” Matth said. “They’ve been a great partner when it comes to us utilizing their open space for events and programs.”