Dewey Goes Pink draws 2,500

Amid raindrops and cloudy skies, traffic in Dewey Beach began to mount about 10 a.m., Saturday, Oct. 8, for the sixth annual Dewey Goes Pink and Gugie Run. Runners, walkers and their supporters poured into town for the 5K run/walk, totaling more than 2,500 people, the largest ever for founders Steve “Monty” Montgomery, owner of The Starboard, and Adam Howard, owner of The Body Shop.  

As participants took to the starting line, Montgomery got on the mic to welcome everyone and kick off the run/walk, noting his relief that the weather had held out, but adding, “We will make it work, rain or shine!” And did they ever.  

After a blessing by Father Max Wolf from All Saints’ Church in Rehoboth Beach, the countdown began and the race commenced. 

Overall winners were Kyle Brightbill, 41, from Springfield, Pa., and Erin Anderson, 34, from Rehoboth Beach. Right behind them came masters winners Kevin Denahy, 41, from Rehoboth Beach and Tara Cavaselis, 40, from Wilmington. 

Breaking from traditional form, the awards ceremony only featured the top aforementioned winners. The focus of the day was truly on fundraising for Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition, an organization that helps people right here at home.  

Sue Ryan, who works for the DBCC, is also a 32-year survivor of breast cancer. “This fundraiser means so much to me,” she said. “Monty has made October a beautiful month for us at the DBCC. Plus, all the money stays in Delaware.” She explained that the funds raised by Dewey Goes Pink go specifically to programs like their Survivor Program; Bosom Buddies Program, which gives out wigs, blankets and other necessities to those in need; peer mentoring; and their Nurture for Nature program.  

Last year the event raised $82,000, with a total over the six years being more than $220,000. This year’s event is likely to have broken last year’s record. 

As participants enjoyed a decadent spread from the Bethany Blues catering team, it was notable that co-owners Dick Heidenberger and Jim Weisgerber were doling out the roasted pig to hungry runners, lending their presence and support to a very special day. 

Montgomery and Howard would like to express their deep gratitude to all the employees, volunteers, officials and participants who made this year’s event so successful. They look forward to next year, slated for Saturday, Oct. 7, 2017, where they hope to exceed this year’s goal and hit 3,000 runners and walkers.