Firecracker 5K sparks success in inaugural event

While the majority of the Fourth of July holiday festivities are getting under way this weekend, some have already taken place. The 1st Annual Firecracker 5K was held this past Sunday in Bethany Beach, benefitting the 25th anniversary edition of the Bethany Beach Fourth of July Parade, scheduled for this Friday, July 3, starting at noon.

Coastal Point • Submitted
Participants begin the 5K in Bethany Beach. The event benefits the 25th annual Bethany Beach Fourth of July Parade to be held on Friday, July 3.

“The turnout exceeded our expectations,” said race director Greg Mavraganis, “and I’m very happy about that.”

In all, 209 people registered for the event, with ages of participants ranging from 6 years old to 78.

“Our goal was to make this a whole family event,” he added, “and with that age range, I think we got there.”

Prizes were awarded for the top finishers in both men’s and women’s divisions.

“We got a lot of help from our corporate sponsors, as well as the participants, who really make it happen,” Mavraganis added. “We had a great start to it this year and, hopefully, we can continue building next year, too.”

The parade brings plenty of families to the Bethany Beach, and starting an activity for all ages may be just enough to pull in more support for the volunteer-organized and donation-supported parade.

“Bethany Beach is very family-oriented,” Mavraganis added, “and we wanted this event to reflect that.

“Because of the turnout, we were able to make a significant donation to the parade this year and, hopefully, we’ll be in good position to hit ground running by next year.”