To the editor:
On Thursday, June 28, almost 700 runners came down to St. Peter's square to take part in the Fiesta 5K road race event.
This year marked the ninth time that the YMCA has organized the event, and I wanted to take a moment to thank some people who worked so hard to make the race a huge success.
First, I want to thank the Fiesta committee for being incredible partners in putting on this race. I appreciate their support and assistance in making a successful event.
The race would never have been a success without all the Cape Ann YMCA volunteers. More than 50 people gave up their evening to come and work on the event.
Putting on a road race is a ton of fun but it's also a ton of work to make it go off well. From registration, to water stops, to planning the awards, it can't happen without dedicated volunteers!
Finally, I need to recognize Lt. Aiello and the Gloucester Police Department. We at the YMCA are so thrilled to be an active part of this historic festival and sincerely believe we would not be able to execute this event safely and successfully without the dedication of the Gloucester Police Department.
The officers on hand kept the runners, spectators, volunteers, pedestrians, and drivers safe. They were flexible when we needed to make last minute changes and offered suggestions on how to improve overall safety. Our dedicated and hard-working police force is a tribute to this community.
Like Fiesta, this road race is a true community event.
The YMCA is honored to be a part of it and we hope the runners had a great experience and return next year!
Scott Hitchcock
Executive Director, Cape Ann YMCA
Gloucester
