Over 1,200 runners are expected at the 2nd Annual Matt’s Mission 5K takes place on May 22nd at 9:30 a.m. and benefits Matt’s Mission Fund. Participants can run or walk the certified 5K (3.1. miles) that starts and ends at North Branford High School. The rolling course passes residential neighborhoods, farmlands and fields before finishing on the track at North Branford High School. After the race, participants are invited to a post race party featuring food, beverages, and entertainment.


The race is in honor of Matt Picciuto of North Branford, who died in a car accident on May 23rd, 2009. The proceeds of the race will benefit Matt’s Mission Fund. The goal of the fund is to help North Branford students in need. From winter coats to school supplies, the fund will provide relief to students and families in the community. Last year’s event raised $33,000 for the fund. There was an outpouring of support from sponsors, participants and the local media.

“Matt wanted to make a difference with his life, hopefully the Matt’s Mission Fund will do just that,” states Matt’s mother Lynn Riordan. “Our goal for this event is to honor Matt’s memory, encourage people to drive safely and to support Matt’s Mission Fund.”

"In today’s economy, many families cannot afford basic necessities that students need to prosper at school," states Scott Schoonmaker, North Branford Superintendent. "At this time there is an urgent need within North Branford school system, each runner, walker and sponsor can make a real difference in a student’s life.”

JB Sports LLC, coordinator of the Stratton Faxon New Haven Road Race and Branford Road Race, coordinates the event with Lynn Riordan. Participants can register now at www.jbsports.com or call (203) 481-5933 for information. All pre-registered runners receive t-shirts and the first 100 raceday entrants receive t-shirts. Awards are given to the fastest runners in numerous age categories.

The race is supported by large contributions from Yale-New Haven Shoreline Medical Center, Lisa & Gene Goodmaster, Pam Seastrand, Mansir Printing, LLC, North Branford Police Union, North Branford Fire Department, Precision Computer Services, 99.1 PLR, Totoket Times, Stephen Whalen and Walt’s Auto Body. Also supporting the event is Rae’s Driving School, Frank Forgione, Esq., Earth Technology, Inc., North Branford Youth Football, Planet Fitness, Keenan Funeral Home, Fusco Corporation Builders, J. Roos Restaurant & Delivery, Humphrey’s Branford Wallingford, Totoket Valley Elementary School, New Haven County Firefighters Emerald Society, Calamita Family and Olive Garden.