KENT—The 40th annual Lake Waramaug Polar Bear Run to benefit Guiding Eyes for the Blind is scheduled for Sunday, Feb. 23, at 11 a.m.
The Lake Waramaug Polar Bear Run is the oldest winter race in the state. Runners from all over Connecticut and surrounding states come to participate in this annual tradition on what many area runners consider the most scenic course in Connecticut. The 7.8 mile run loops around Lake Waramaug and passes through Kent, Warren and Washington. The start / finish line is located at Hopkins Vineyard.
Register online at lakewaramaugpolarbearrun.com or at the race until 10:30 a.m. Runners can pick up their numbers in advance of the race on Friday, Feb. 21, from 1-7 p.m. at Hopkins Vineyard. Number pickup will also be available race day morning starting at 9:30 am.
A team of more than 70 volunteers joins forces to create the annual event, which is a registered nonprofit. All proceeds benefit Guiding Eyes for the Blind, an organization that raises and trains guide dogs for blind and visually impaired people.
The run is organized by TrailHeads, a Kent-based business that designs and markets hats, gloves, headbands and related accessories for runners and outdoor enthusiasts. TrailHeads president and co-founder Stephanie Raftery commented, “It’s a big year for the run. With the 40th annual run we hope to break $40,000 in total donations to Guiding Eyes for the Blind since we began working with them in 2018. We’re very excited to be organizing the event and are already on track for a record turnout.”
Over the seven years that Guiding Eyes for the Blind has been the run’s charitable beneficiary more than $34,800 has already been raised. More than 160 guide dogs are trained each year at facilities in Yorktown Heights and Patterson, NY, and partnered with visually impaired persons. All services are offered free of charge to those in need.
In recent years, runners have been greeted by a group of future guide dogs and their handlers who come to raise awareness about Guiding Eyes and to provide support for the run.
The race is hosted by Hopkins Vineyard and the event is supported by volunteers from many community organizations. The Kent Lions Club plays a key role by providing financial support as well as volunteers. Their contributions are instrumental to the race’s continuation and success.
Also volunteering, are members of the Brookfield High School Girls Track Team at one of the water stations while students from South Kent School man the other. Kent School bakes chocolate chip cookies for runners to enjoy at the end of the race and Washington and Warren ambulance squads are on hand to ensure a safe race environment.
The run is sponsored by several local businesses including Kent Wine & Spirit, Hopkins Vineyard and Kent Falls Brewing Co.
TrailHeads will provide prize giveaways for runners. After runners have conquered the course and enjoyed the post run festivities at Hopkins Vineyard, they can head over to Kent Falls Brewing Co. where there will be The Post Polar Beer event.
Interested in becoming a volunteer? Contact info@lakewaramaugpolarbearrun.com for details.
