About:
It took a few years of early morning runs on Waterbury's "Not-Quite-Independence-Day" for Tom Thurston to come up with the idea of hosting the Green Mountain Mile. It was the lawn chairs already set up on Main Street at 6 a.m. that initially surprised him. The dedication of the parade fans. Then he put two and two together. Parade fans + Main Street closed to traffic = a great running race venue.
An avid runner, Nordic skier, and teacher at Thatcher Brook Primary School (who maintains the school's cross country ski equipment), he decided to put on a race that kids, families, and community members could participate in. The course is mostly flat, mostly lined with cheering spectators, and it finishes downtown at the intersection of Stowe and Main Street (known locally as Bank Hill).
The race is low-key (no flashy race clock or timing chips) and draws many young families with kids often completing a mile run for the first time at this event. Finishers cross under a banner made by Brad Gresham, head of facilities and grounds at TBPS, and kids receive a hand-crafted pottery medal made by TBPS Art Teacher MK Monley. Helping distribute the medals is Gym Teacher Carol Baitz along with her husband Steve. Many members of the school and community help make the race possible.
Race day is often pretty hot, but it is on the cold, snowy days that kids get to reap the benefit of the fundraising event. Proceeds benefit cross country skiing and recreation at TBPS.
An avid runner, Nordic skier, and teacher at Thatcher Brook Primary School (who maintains the school's cross country ski equipment), he decided to put on a race that kids, families, and community members could participate in. The course is mostly flat, mostly lined with cheering spectators, and it finishes downtown at the intersection of Stowe and Main Street (known locally as Bank Hill).
The race is low-key (no flashy race clock or timing chips) and draws many young families with kids often completing a mile run for the first time at this event. Finishers cross under a banner made by Brad Gresham, head of facilities and grounds at TBPS, and kids receive a hand-crafted pottery medal made by TBPS Art Teacher MK Monley. Helping distribute the medals is Gym Teacher Carol Baitz along with her husband Steve. Many members of the school and community help make the race possible.
Race day is often pretty hot, but it is on the cold, snowy days that kids get to reap the benefit of the fundraising event. Proceeds benefit cross country skiing and recreation at TBPS.