The 5th annual Belmont Water Dog Run took place this Saturday morning, attracting people from all over Belmont and neighboring towns.
This year, the event took place in Twin Pines Park from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. on a cold, windy October morning. With race options including 1-mile, 5k, 10k, and Fido (dog-friendly) runs, the gathering was accessible to all.
More than 1,000 people attended this year as runners, volunteers, and supporters, exceeding the expectations of the event organizers.
“We believe that community [of] people who live here enjoy the fact that they’re doing something outside of their street,” said Mary Parden, one of the event organizers.
The Water Dog Run is a non-profit fundraising event that goes to help improve education in the community. According to Parden, their goal is to build a fun community while raising support and funding for local education and schools.
Several people have expressed their reasons for participating, which are mainly oriented toward building a better community, being out in the streets, and contributing to funding schools, while others focus on getting exercise and improving their running skills.
“We have people who are very serious racers in the 5k and 10k, and they are actually doing this to improve their time or participate in races that are more challenging,” Parden said.
In addition to practicing running, people participate in this event for community aspects.
“Everyone can participate; dogs, kids, adults,” said Jordan Perkins, a former Carlmont student who grew up in Belmont. “It’s a super fun event that I think brings the community together.”
Others think, this year more than ever, the Water Dog Run is important because the community goes out together.
“We get people out here every year, and this year is great because we don’t have to worry so much about the pandemic,” said Belmont Mayor Julia Mates. “It’s just wonderful to see the community.”
People from all over the community have participated in this event in the past years as well, and the number of people has increased each year.
According to Parden, the Water Dog Run’s goal is to continue exceeding their and runners’ expectations for the following events.
Parden said, “This is really about trying to figure out the needs of the community.”
