For the second year in a row, the Commodore Builders team laced up its running shows and joined hundreds of community members in Paddy’s Pub’s 25th annual road race.

On October 18, the Newton community showed up in full force to support the mission of Newton Athletes Unlimited (NAV). The organization relies on its community volunteers to raise money to support recreational programs for individuals with disabilities. These programs range from yoga, to crafting, to soccer and hockey. Proceeds from the race, the “Blocktoberfest” Beer Garden, raffles, and a silent auction will go toward expanding recreational programs and sports for individuals of all abilities within our community.

Leading the Commodore team was Marketing & Proposal Manager Katie Cerulle, who is also training for a half marathon in Cambridge next month.

“Sports have always played a huge role in my life,” Katie reflected. “Improving access to these kinds of recreational programs in my community is a big reason for my participation today.”

For many of our employees, participation in the race has become a meaningful annual tradition and an opportunity to support a cause that brings people together through recreation, inclusion, and community. Assistant Project Managers Juliette Marquis and Halle Carter returned for their second year, eager to build on last year’s experience while contributing to NAV’s mission.

“We had a lot of fun last year,” Juliette remarked. “I’m hoping to finish a little faster than I did last year.”

For others, the event was about more than the race itself. Senior Project Accountant Julie Erving once again tackled the course alongside her four-year-old daughter, continuing a family tradition that has become one of the highlights of the event for her. After setting a personal record in last year’s race, Julie had a different goal in mind this time around.

“[My daughter’s] favorite part of running is the last quarter mile, hopping out of the stroller and jogging beside me to cross the finish line,” Julie said. “Last year I did this race for a PR, but this year I’m doing it to instill the love of running in [my daughter].”

These kinds of stories reflect what makes this event so special. Whether participants were chasing personal milestones, spending time with family, or simply showing up to support their community, the race served as a reminder of the power of recreation to bring people together and create opportunities for everyone to participate.

Whether participants were running for a cause, chasing personal goals, or competing for a top finish, everyone contributed to the energy of the day. Project Manager Gavin Isbell turned in one of the race’s strongest performances, placing fourth in the Men’s division with a remarkable 5:04 pace. That’s the kind of pace that keeps projects moving, too.

At Commodore, we believe in investing in the communities where we live and work. We are proud to support organizations like NAV that create inclusive opportunities and make a lasting impact on the lives of local individuals and families. We’re looking forward to next year’s race already!