Lucie Monk Carter
On your mark, get set...dance! Alright, technically the running comes first for the racers in September 15th's Courir de Pont Breaux 5k, but in a town as spirited as Breaux Bridge, you can be sure the dancing is never far behind.
“It's why we call it the 'Dance Away 5k' too,” says Coatney Raymond, managing partner at Buck & Johnny's. “You run, alright, but then you come over here and just keep dancing away!” The restaurant is set to welcome runners with the rollicking live tunes and irresistible menu of its world-famous Zydeco Breakfast, the perfect pick-me-up for a Saturday morning athlete deep in Cajun country.
At the heart of Breaux Bridge lies more than just infectious music and unforgettable cuisine, though. There's enough community spirit and goodwill to power the town—or at least fuel an enthusiastic 5k! Last year's inaugural run successfully raised a healthy donation to the local food bank, and each year will help fund a different community project. 2018's goal? The Breaux Bridge Dog Park.
In keeping with this year's finish line fundraiser, the day will begin at 7:30 am with a 1 Mile Fun Run, which includes both human and canine participants. After a diligent sweep from the Scoop Patrol, 5k runners and walkers will embark on their route through scenic downtown Breaux Bridge, crossing over the famous bridge that gives the city and the race its name.
Runners crossing the finish line still have much to look forward to! The race entry fee includes a souvenir t-shirt and complimentary post-race snacks and LA31 beer, but that's just for starters. All participants also gain free entry to the Zydeco Breakfast at Buck & Johnny's, which includes a well-deserved Bloody Mary on the house for those 21 and older.
Coatney Raymond is excited about the response to the race, and says they're expecting from 350 to 400 runners this year. She credits race director Rhonda Branch, whose “energy and focus” have given shape to the Courir de Pont Breaux and helped propel its mission: “Supporting Cajun/Creole Culture, healthy living, and community giving!”
Race registration is $30 through runsignup.com. More information and current announcements are available on the 5k's Facebook page.
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