By Emma Barhydt
After a long, rainy week, the clouds finally cleared just in time for Filling in the Blank’s (FITB) sixth annual Fight to Unite 5k. The vibrant spirit of community and charity filled the air at Waveny Park as the event, held on April 7th, brought together people from all walks of life, united by a common goal: to combat childhood hunger.
Filling in the Blanks, a nonprofit organization dedicated to fighting childhood hunger, has been on a mission to ensure no child goes hungry on weekends. “Most will get breakfast and lunch from school every weekday, but many will go from Friday lunch until Monday at breakfast without a decent meal,” according to FITB’s website.
Founded in 2013, FITB has been making a significant impact in the lives of children across preschool to high school, as well as in camps and after-school programs, having already provided two million weekend meals to children in low-income households. The Unite to Fight 5k is another stepping stone in their efforts.
Children lined up early, at 8:15 AM, for the Kids Fun Run, with laughter and cheers echoing through the park, they took off. Following the Kids Fun Run, it was time for the main event—the 5k run. At 8:45 AM, participants of all ages and backgrounds, and from all across Connecticut, gathered at the starting line, ready to embark on their journey of both physical endurance and philanthropy. Among them were seasoned runners, passionate advocates, and individuals simply looking to make a difference.
Among the New Canaan Runners, there were standout performances that exemplified both athleticism and heart. The top three runners were Charlie Sulkowski, Scott Skidmore, and Oscar Humphreys.
Charlie Sulkowski, a sixteen-year-old dynamo, showcased his speed and stamina, securing the second-place spot with a time of 19:31 and a pace of 6:17 per mile. Not far behind was Scott Skidmore, a seasoned runner of fifty-two years old, claiming fifth place with a time of 21:21 and a pace of 6:52 per mile. Last but not least was young Oscar Humphreys, only thirteen years old but already showing promise as he crossed the finish line in ninth place, clocking in at 22:09 with a pace of 7:07 per mile.
But it wasn’t just about the top finishers—the true victory lay in the collective effort to support a worthy cause. And it was Stephanie Kramer who embodied the spirit of both athleticism and compassion. Crossing the finish line in fifteenth place overall, Stephanie also claimed the title of first place among women, completing the 5k in 22:44 with a pace of 7:19 per mile.
As participants crossed the finish line, their faces flushed with exertion and exhilaration, they were greeted with cheers and applause. But beyond the personal triumphs and athletic achievements, there was a deeper significance to the day’s events. The funds raised from the Unite to Fight 5k would go towards supporting Filling in the Blanks’ vital mission, ensuring that 7,500 children would continue to receive the nourishment they need to thrive.
As the sun reached its peak and the last runners crossed the finish line, there was a palpable sense of fulfillment and camaraderie in the air. Though the race is over, the fight against childhood hunger continues. With each step taken and each dollar raised, the community came together to make a tangible difference in the lives of children in need. And that, perhaps, was the greatest victory of all.
For more information on Filling in the Blanks, please visit their website, www.fillingintheblanks.org
