Athletes Against Alzheimer’s 5k Run/Walk Makes $20,000 Contribution

Recreation Running Sussex

Back in August, 625 runners, plus dozens of fans and volunteers, participated in the 3rd Annual Athletes Against Alzheimer’s 5k Run/Walk, presented by Loftus Wealth Strategies, in downtown Bethany Beach. The run/walk benefited the Alzheimer’s Association Delaware Valley Chapter. Thanks to all of them, and many generous sponsors, a contribution of more than $20,000 was made possible on Friday, March 9, 2018.

Photo: Pictured Left to Right (attached): Michael Loftus, Founder, Athletes Against Alzheimer’s, Bethany Beach, Jamie Magee for Alzheimer's Association, Ernie Felici, Race Director, Focus Multisports, Rick Hundley, Race Director, Focus Multisports.
Pictured Left to Right (attached): Michael Loftus, Founder, Athletes Against Alzheimer’s, Bethany Beach, Jamie Magee for Alzheimer’s Association, Ernie Felici, Race Director, Focus Multisports, Rick Hundley, Race Director, Focus Multisports. – Contributed Photo

Michael Loftus, of Loftus Wealth Strategies, a wealth management and financial planning business in Millville, Delaware, the event founder, presented a check the Alzheimer’s Association in Millville.

According to the Alzheimer’s Association website, Alzheimer’s is a type of dementia that causes problems with memory, thinking and behavior; the life-interfering symptoms worsen over time and there is no cure.

“We will have raised nearly $70,000 in our three-year history,” said Loftus. “I want to thank the runners, sponsors, volunteers, partners, residents and visitors who have helped us achieve so much.”

“Our sponsors are critical partners in our fight against Alzheimer’s.” said Loftus. “Generous support from local businesses significantly moves the needle toward our goal. I want to thank our past sponsors and invite other businesses to join us to in the fight against this terrible disease. I also ask that people give back to our sponsors with their personal business.”

“Michael Loftus and his team have done an outstanding job developing and growing this event. The passion, energy and commitment he has is truly inspiring. Unfortunately, there is no way to slow, prevent or cure Alzheimer’s disease, and the funds raised through the Bethany Beach run support Alzheimer’s care support and research. His event helps us take a big step closer to a world without Alzheimer’s, and we cannot thank him enough.” said Wendy Campbell, Alzheimer’s Association Delaware Valley Chapter President & CEO.

In addition to Loftus Wealth Strategies, 2017 sponsors were: 26 Salon & Spa, Anne Powell Group at Keller Williams, Atlantic Shoals Surf Shop, Baja Beach House Grill, Bethany Surf Shop, Coastal Point, County Bank, Creative Resource Group, DJ Padraig, Fairway Mortgage, Fischer’s Popcorn, Tom and Candace Hickman & Family, Home Instead Senior Care, Law Offices of Scott & Shuman, and Law Offices of Susan Pittard Weidman, Tidewater Physical Therapy.

Registration is open for the 4th annual Athletes Against Alzheimer’s 5k Run/Walk set for August 4, 2018 and plans are in the works: www.alzrun.com.

“We are seeking runners and walkers, both individuals and teams, volunteers and sponsors to join together to raise money for this important charity to end the vicious disease” said Loftus.

Produced by Focus Multisports, the fast, flat and scenic 5k run/walk features on-course entertainment by DJ Padraig, awesome awards, and a post-race party. Focus Multisports, known for successful events such as the Bethany Beach First Responders Triathlon/Duathlon/Aquabike, Coastal Delaware Running Festival, Boo-B-Que by the Sea, Surfin’ Snowman 5 Miler, and Justin’s Beachouse 5k, will deliver well-organized, and fun event.

“Races like this one is what we are all about at Focus Multisports. Our company exists to partner with people like Michael (Loftus) to harness the power of a local community to help organizations like the Alzheimer’s Association do good work.” said Ernie Felici of Focus Multisports.

Individuals and teams are encouraged to join the fundraising effort, and cash donations are fully tax-deductible.

Register at www.alzrun.com. Visit the Facebook page, ALZRunWalk, for more details and updates. For more information about the Alzheimer’s Association Delaware Valley Chapter, visit alz.org/delval.