LYNN — The Shoe City Series, which is entering its second year, kicked off on March 23 with the Annual Lynn Hibernian 5k. Next up in the four race/walk series is the Lynn Fire Department and Lynn Police Department Family Day 5k.
According to race coordinator and Firefighter Dan Dulong, the LFD/LPD Family Day 5k started a few years ago as an activity for those who came to the annual LFD/LPD Family Day.
“A race series has always been something that interested me as a way to showcase the many great parts of the city. This was made easier to put together because the city already had established 5ks throughout the city at different times of year, and it seems like more races are being held in the city each year. Great 5ks with fantastic coordinators and amazing causes,” Dulong said.
The family day is hosted by the Lynn Fire Department Local 739 and the Lynn Police Local 302 with the help of Lynn Fire and Lynn Police, and consists of activities for the kids, bouncy houses, and educational fire and police activities in Lynn Woods. There is also a shorter race for kids.
“The Fire and Police unions, along with a few generous sponsors, cover all costs. This includes the bouncy houses and pizza, so everything is free for the participants,” Dulong said.
He explained that the only costs come from adults signing up for the 5k (or the whole Shoe City Series), raffles, and shirts.
“It’s important for me as the coordinator of LFD/LPD Family Day to put together a fun day for my coworkers and the people of our amazing city. Coming together to have fun and enjoy each other’s company outside of work is great,” he said.
Dulong also expressed the importance of the 5k because it shows the beauty of Lynn Woods. He continued that the fire department spends a lot of time in the woods battling fires and trying to stop the spread of damage in the area. This is a way they can appreciate the woods.
“It’s an amazing area that doesn’t get enough recognition,” he said.
Any money collected during Family Day is split between the Lynn Fire union and the Lynn Police union Charitable Donation account to be used throughout the city in the form of sponsorships and donations, according to Dulong.
Each race has its own medal that you can earn. However, if you compete and receive all four medals, they combine to create one large medal.
The LFD/LPD 5k will occur on May 31 at 9 a.m., and those wishing to sign up can do so online.
The other 5ks in the series include the Stop the Violence Turkey Trot 5k and the Greater Lynn Chamber of Commerce Clock to the Rock 5k.
