JEFF'S RUN 5 MILER
CAMBRIDGE, MA OCTOBER 4, 1998
Computerized Timing & Scoring By: YANKEE TIMING Co., call Dave Camire 978-957-4230
Jeff's Run
by Dave Camire
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Jeff's Run Poster photo Dave Camire
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Cambridge, MA - It was a little more than one year ago when 10-year-old Jeffrey Curley was lured away from his Cambridge home by two men with the promise of $50 and a new bicycle. What followed was the most heinous of crimes. The two men suffocated Jeffrey with a gas-soaked rag and molested his body before dumping him into a Maine river in a cement-filled Rubbermaid tub.
Today those two men await trail with the possibility of spending rest of their lives in prison. Since Jeffrey's death, his parents have waged a valiant fight against this type of crime. To raise awareness and money for the Child Assault Prevention Program (CAPP) the first annual Jeff's Run took place in Cambridge. Both of Jeffrey's parents were in attendance along with many family members and friends of the family. A number of political dignitaries also participated. Prior to the race, Governor Cellucci made a poignant speech about the efforts the state to educate children about the dangers of child abduction.
Although a serious athletic competition took place, the competition was transcended by the prayers, support and contributions of the 700-plus generous racers and walkers. Prior to the race, I asked one young women if she could move her number from the back to the front her shirt. I explained how the finish line people had to be able to see the number as she approached the finish. She explained that she didn't want cover the image of Jeffrey on her shirst as she said her pre-race prayer for Jeffrey. This event really put the importance of family and friends in perspective. Next year I highly recommend running this race, you'll feel good that you did!
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