BELFAST — RunBelfast just concluded its third season with significantly fewer participants than in the previous years but persevered in the world of virtual experiences.

“There were 11 individuals who enrolled for the series and stuck with us,” said Coastal Mountains Land Trust, in a news release. “When they sent in their times, often they would share where they had run as well.”

Damariscotta, Auburn, Bayside, and the Belfast Rail Trail were some of the locations. One participant did each “race” on her treadmill.

“We were impressed with the tenacity and determination of all,” said CMLT.

Another participant submitted his ‘race’ time as the time he submitted for his virtual Boston Marathon.

“He was inspirational,” said CMLT.

Sponsors for the six events included: Coastal Mountains Land Trust, June 1; PAWS, June 22; Belfast Rotary July 20 and Aug 17; Waldo County YMCA, September 19; and Rollie’s Run for Kids (Shriners Hospital), Oct 3.  All six events encouraged participation, wellness, and fun.

“Belfast is a great host for running events and Norm Poirier of Belfast Parks & Recreation has been a loyal supporter of RunBelfast,” said CMLT. “Series sponsor, Damariscotta Bank & Trust, never wavered in their support and the five organizations are hoping for in-person running next year.”

One of the pluses for virtual events is that the on-site organizer of each event in the RunBelfast series, volunteer director Leonard Kalinowski, was finally able to run each race.  

Coastal Mountains Land Trust has worked since 1986 to permanently conserve land to benefit the natural and human communities of the western Penobscot Bay. The Land Trust has protected over 10,000 acres to date, offering 50+ miles of trails for public recreation.