At Waverley Oaks, we take pride in our strong community ties and long-standing commitment to supporting the organizations and initiatives that make our neighborhoods stronger. Giving back isn’t just something we do – it’s part of who we are.
Each year, we are proud to support the Becca Pizzi Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring the next generation through education, athletics, and community support.
Members and staff come together as Team Waverley Oaks to participate in the Foundation’s annual 5K Run/Walk in Belmont, combining fitness, community, and a great cause. This year’s event will take place on Sunday, August 30th.
ABOUT THE FOUNDER
Becca Pizzi is a Belmont native and elite endurance runner known for her remarkable achievements in long-distance and extreme marathon racing.
She gained international recognition as the first American woman to complete the World Marathon Challenge – running seven marathons on seven continents in seven consecutive days – and went on to make history as the only woman to accomplish the feat twice, in 2016 and 2018.
She also won the competition overall and set a Guinness World Record.
Over the course of her career, Becca has built an impressive resume that extends beyond the World Marathon Challenge.
Over the course of her career, Becca has built an impressive resume that extends beyond the World Marathon Challenge. She has completed a marathon in all 50 states, and proudly finished 22 consecutive Boston Marathons. Her passion for endurance sports has also led her to compete in the Ironman World Championships.
Beyond competition, she is a coach, author, motivational speaker, race director, and business owner.
Keep reading to learn more about Becca, the inspiration behind the Becca Pizzi Foundation, and the impact the organization is making in our community.
Q. What inspired you to establish the Becca Pizzi Foundation?
My family has lived in Belmont for seven generations, so this community has always been a very important part of my life. The town and the people in it have supported and encouraged me throughout my running journey, including during some of my biggest challenges and accomplishments.
I established the Becca Pizzi Foundation as a way to give back to the community that has always believed in me. I hope to provide that same support and encouragement to the next generation and inspire them to dream big, work hard, and believe in yourself!
Q. How did the annual 5K Run/Walk first get started?
The 5K race began 11 years ago with 111 runners. I was SO excited just to reach 100 participants.
Each year, we grow in sponsors and participants, allowing the foundation to expand its impact in the community.
Today, the race has grown to more than 500 runners and walkers.
Q. What makes this event special or different from other community races?
What makes this race so special is the energy and community spirit! Families, local businesses, first-time racers, and very experienced runners all come together for a fun day while supporting student athletes in Belmont. From the Kids Run to the 5K Run/Walk, there is something for everyone!
Join a team, create your own, or come out on your own! The race is also pet and stroller-friendly!
Q. What has been the most rewarding part of seeing the Becca Pizzi Foundation grow and impact the Belmont community?
Over the past 11 years, we have awarded more than $100,000 in scholarships and sports equipment to students at Belmont High School. The heartfelt thank-you messages I receive from those who have been impacted by the foundation mean so much to me and are a powerful reminder of why this work matters.
I also love seeing first-time racers take part in both the 1-Mile Kids Run and the 5K Run/Walk each year. Seeing their excitement and confidence is incredibly meaningful because I will never forget running my first race right here in Belmont!
Q. What do you hope participants take away from the 5K beyond completing the course?
I hope runners and walkers leave feeling inspired, connected to the community, and proud to know they helped support local student athletes. Most of all, I hope they have fun and cannot wait to come back next year! Because that is how I feel!
To learn more about the event and register to join Team Waverley Oaks, visit beccapizzi.com.
TEAM WAVERLEY THROUGH THE YEARS
