ATHOL — Saturday began a bit – well – wet, but the race gods were apparently smiling on the in the organizers and participants of the Big Cheese 5K. The race that kicked off River Rat Race weekend proceeded without a hitch, despite rains that fell until about a half-hour before race time.
According to race co-coordinator Matt Talbot, nearly 320 people took part in the 10th edition of the race, which raises cash for local non-profits. In an earlier interview, Talbot told the Daily News that since its inception the Big Cheese has raised more than $45,000 for Meals-on-Wheels, the annual Food-a-Thon, and to help families that meet income guidelines pay for membership and program fees at the Athol Area YMCA. While exact figures for 2019 aren’t yet available, last year’s race raised more than $6,000.
This year’s overall winner for the men was Jack Bassett, who finished the course in 17 minutes, 34 seconds. Second place went to Ryan Lyesiuk, who clocked in at 18:45. For the women, the top spot went to Bess Buechele, finishing in 23:59. Deanna Deacon finished in 25:10 to capture second.
Among the vendors who showed up for the parade was Kelly Phillips of Cliff’s Smokin’ Backyard Barbeque and Catering. The resident of Buckland, Mass. said she has continued to operate the business, despite the death of her husband, Cliff, five years ago.
“I love meeting all the people,” she said. “I love putting smiles on peoples’ faces. Over the years of doing this, I’ve gotten to know a lot of families. I’ve seen people graduate, get married, have babies.”
Over the weekend, Phillips operated her induction smoker in Athol, while another crew set up in Orange, using the rotisserie/barrel smoker.
“Cliff may not be here, but I know he’s watching…happy that we’re still making other people happy,” she said.
Alexa Anderson, 8, likes everything about the parade, but her favorite part “is when they throw the candy.” Wesley Burton, 3, who accompanied Alexa to the event, agreed that getting a little candy was the highlight of the day.
“We do it for the kids,” said Heather Seymour of Athol. “It’s fun. It’s a chance to get out and do something with the kids that’s fun and doesn’t cost a whole lot of money.”