Organizers of the Second Annual Metropolitan Branch Trail (MBT) 5K Run/Walk have announced this year’s event date: Saturday, May 5, 2012. In 2011, the inaugural year for the race, over 160 runners and walkers participated. Since then the trail has been graced with a series of public art installations, community service days and new businesses at each end of the track. The event will be held on the off-road, paved portion of the MBT bike trail in Northeast DC, starting at the intersection of S Street NE and 4th Street NE and the trail entrance. Organizers expect increased participation this year and encourage early registration.
The Run/Walk's mission is to promote exercise and healthy activity for all ages and building a sense of community ownership and involvement with the Metropolitan Branch Trail in neighborhoods to which it is adjacent, including Capitol Hill North, NoMa/Union Station, Eckington, Edgewood, Bloomingdale, Brookland, North Michigan Park, and continuing to Ft. Totten, Takoma Park and Silver Spring.
Several sponsors have committed their support to this mission, notably Platinum Sponsor EYA, a residential developer which is building a new townhome community adjacent to the trail route. “It’s great to see the race in its second year and we are honored to sponsor this worthy event. Fitness, smart transit and neighborhood camaraderie are such important assets for urban neighborhoods. The Metropolitan Branch Trail is truly one of the City’s jewels,” said Preston Innerst, EYA Vice President. Other Platinum Sponsors (contributing $1,000 in cash or goods) include Rails-to-Trails Conservancy in conjunction with Kaiser Permanente, and retail grocer, Harris Teeter, located in the NoMa Business Improvement District. This annual community event celebrates the versatility of the vibrant urban pathway and the neighborhoods through which it passes.
Race co-sponsor DC Road Runners Club, a 501 (c)(3) charitable organization which organizes more than 30 races annually in the DC area, will provide online registration, official timing and logistical support. The 5K course is USATF-certified. As a charitable event, proceeds will go to subsidize youth runners and fund other MBT trail/community linkages, such as trail beautification, safety and social recreation.
To register, and for business sponsorship information, visit: www.gometbranch.com. You can also “Like” us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MBT5K. The first 150 students under the age of 18 who register online will be able to participate without charge.
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