Red Sox legend Johnny Pesky’ appearance at the 18th annual RiverWalk/6K Run for Elder Services of the Merrimack valley was a perfect ending to a fabulous day.
The RiverWalk/6K run is the agency’s largest fundraiser of the year. The $55,000 raised by the non-profit group will help elders across the Merrimack Valley from Lowell to Newburyport. The RiverWalk/6K event was given a makeover this year with a new 6K run and walk along the banks of the Merrimack river winding its way through Pemberton State Park with historic stops at Lawrence Heritage State Park.
Robert Hunter, 84 of Tewksbury, MA the oldest runner in the field ran the 6K distance in 46:57. “I’ve been running for 65 years and this is one of the best courses I’ve even run,” said Hunter. “Not only was the route beautiful but the whole event was fun, remarked Hunter. I’ll be back next year with a bunch of my friends.” Chris Faddis of Boxford 22:42 and Nancy Corsaro of Methuen 25:46 earned the fastest times for the male and female overall categories.
Once the runners and walkers completed the new course, the parking lot at Elder Services was perfect places too host a party. With music playing and plenty of free food and drink for all, there was plenty to keep both young and old busy until Pesky, 88, arrived just after Noon to a roaring applause by the hundreds of fans who line-up to meet Mr. Red Sox. The friendly and engaging Pesky signed autographs, took photos and even kissed a few fans during the more than 60 minute autograph signing session. “Meeting folks is always fun for me, “said Pesky. “I can’t believe after all these years how much fans appreciate what I did so many years ago. Coming to Boston was the best thing that ever happened to me in my career,” Pesky said.
The newly created Team Spirit award was presented to Mary’s Kids. Mary’s Kids a group of walkers organized by the son and daughter of Mary Petronio, an avid supporter of Elder Services who worked at the agency until she was 90 years old. Petronio recently died but the group of walkers wearing the neon yellow jerseys with the bold letters reading Mary’s Kids best exemplifies the spirit and mission of Elder Services.
The money raised by the RiverWalk is used by the Elder Services Elder Care Fund, a financial resource used for emergency assistance. Each year this fund helps over 300 elders receive help with basic items like prescriptions, fuel, food, dentures, wheelchairs and a host of other needs. For more information on Elder services please contact Tony Palmisano @ 978-946-1350.
