BIG TURNOUT FOR SECOND ANNUAL MR8K IN BRIGHTON

DORCHESTER REPORTER

A group of youngsters showed off their wheels on the race route Monday. Photo courtesy DMSE Sports.

Over 1,200 runners participated in the 2nd Annual MR8K: A Run for Gratitude at the Warrior Ice Arena in Brighton on Labor Day morning. The race, a signature event organized by the Martin Richard Foundation, is held every year in honor of Martin Richard, the youngest victim of the Boston Marathon bombing.

Monday’s event featured runners of all ages, a public skate at the hockey rink, and a post-race party with food, drinks, and live music. This year, Luke Janik placed first among male runners in the five mile race while Erica Gagnon placed first in the women’s category.

Monday marked the first time the event was held at the hockey training center, thanks to Team MR8’s partnership with the Bruins. Former Bruins center and Director of Development for the Boston Bruins Foundation Bob Sweeney spoke to the turnout and the organization’s relationship with the Richard family in a video published by the Bruins’ social media team on Monday.

"We consider the Martin Richard Foundation one of our core charities and we look forward to supporting them year after year,” he said.