Inaugural "Murphy's Mad Dash For A Cure" Takes Place Saturday

There has been no shortage of tributes and benefits in Montville for Traci Hart, and this weekend the town will begin an annual event to remember the late first-grade teacher.

The first annual Murphy’s Mad Dash For A Cure five-kilometer run or walk will begin at 10 a.m. on Saturday. Proceeds from the event will benefit the American Cancer Society.

The event is being hosted by teachers and staff from the Dr. Charles E. Murphy Elementary School. Hart, a Norwich native and 1989 graduate of Montville High School, began teaching after receiving a bachelor’s degree from Central Connecticut State University and master’s degree from Sacred Heart University. She died of breast cancer in 2011 at the age of 39.

Past events paying tribute to Hart have included a celebration of her life at the VFW, a Recess Relay, and Montville Fights Back. These events have also raised funds for Hart’s family as well as organizations such as the Terri Brodeur Breast Cancer Foundation and the American Cancer Society.

The “out and back” race will start and finish at the Dr. Charles E. Murphy School, proceeding two and a half kilometers down Chesterfield Road before returning along the same route.

Race day registration and number pickup will take place from 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Registration may also be done online. The cost is $25, or $15 for children ages 14 and under.