The Races - Places was named the Best Amateur Single-Sport Event for 2013 by SportsTravel magazine, a national recognition bestowed each year to events that provide a superior experience for competitors or spectators.
The 5K race beat out multiple events, including USA swimming’s grand prix series, BMX bike racing nationals, and a USA wrestling competition.
The event, held in Hartford, Connecticut in March, included 15,000 runners in a moving and emotional tribute to the families who lost loved ones at the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting. It included a children’s choir who sang wearing Sandy Hook’s green and white colors (pictured) and raised $450,143 for a fund that benefits affected families.
Beth Shluger, executive director of the Hartford Marathon Foundation, which put on the race, accepted the award at the travel and sports management industry’s annual conference in Salt Lake City late last week.
“It was an honor for the foundation to produce the Races - Places and provide an opportunity for thousands to come together in an emotional outpouring of support for our neighbors in Newtown,” Shluger said in a statement.
Past recipients have included the Orlando International Dragon Boat Festival (2012), Cal Ripken World Series World Championship Game (2010), and the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon (2008).
