The 16th Annual
The Petit Family Foundation
5K Road Race
Sunday July 16, 2023
History of The Petit Family 5k Road Race
The The Petit Family 5k Road Race began in early 2008 by two brothers, Robert and Gary Heslin, who were classmates of Dr. William A. Petit, Jr. at Plainville High School, class of 1974. Together the three of them ran cross-country and track & field. In response to Dr. Petit’s request to do good things for others and to carry on the legacy of his wife and daughters, lifelong runners Robert and Gary decided that a USATF-certified 5k, point-to-point course would be the best option they could offer. There is also a 1.3mi Fitness Walk.
On behalf of the Petit Family 5k Road race, the Petit Family Foundation has awarded over $4.5 million in grants to programs and projects all over Connecticut, as well as the American Northeast and all across the United States.
Grants include:
- Fellowship Place
- Family Center, Inc.
- Klingberg Family Centers
- Survivors of Homicide
- Boys & Girls Center of Bristol
- Prudence Crandall
- Hayley Petit Injury Prevention Fellowship at Connecticut Childrens Medical Center

All proceeds will benefit The Petit Family Foundation.
The Petit Family Foundation honors the memories of Jennifer Hawke-Petit, Hayley Elizabeth Petit, and Michaela Rose Petit by continuing the kindness, idealism and activism that defined their lives.
Our Impact
15 Years
Running
$6 Mil. +
In Grants Awarded
Community Voices
Registration & Fees
The entry fee for the 5K Race (3.1 mi) or Fitness Run (1.3 mi) is $30.00 per person.
The event is over and registration is closed.
The Course / Directions
Registration, Fitness Walk & 5K Road Race will begin at
47 Robert Holcomb Way, Plainville, CT 06062