The University of Rochester will host "Dippy's Race 5K" at 10 a.m., Sunday, April 11, on the River Campus. The race is a benefit to aid Josefa ("Dippy" Benzoni) Cartier, Class of 1988, who was seriously injured in an automobile accident last fall.
Cartier was an outstanding athlete while a student at the University, earning nine-time All-American Distance Runner honors.
Cartier, whose maiden name is Benzoni, suffered broken bones and severe head injuries when she was involved in a head-on collision in Denver this past fall. Proceeds from "Dippy's Race" will go toward her medical expenses.
This event is spearheaded by Tim Hale, the University's associate athletic director and former track and field coach, who brought Cartier's former classmates and teammates together to set up the race.
Organizer John Geraci, Class of 1987, said that this is a way for the university community to show support for Cartier. "She was a pretty special person ... there are a lot of people here that care about her," Geraci said. "We want to ease some of the financial pressures on her family."
The run is open to all members of the University and Rochester communities. Participants will run a course on the University's roadways. Registration is $18 before the race and $20 the day of the race. Registration packets are available at Fauver Stadium. For more information, contact Tim Hale at (585) 275-9465 or John Geraci at (585) 624-7956, or visit the website at http://hometown.aol.com/geracijohn/dippyrace.html.