The 21st annual NHTI and Delta Dental 5K road race on April 18 had its largest runner turnout since before the COVID-19 pandemic with more than 300 participants.

It was the second event in this year’s Capital Area Race Series, and it benefits NHTI’s Jennifer Kemp Memorial Scholarship Fund. In addition, all runners were entered into a raffle to win Red Sox tickets.

“I’ve run every single one of these,” said Northeast Delta Dental CEO Tom Raffio. “The environment tonight is awesome. I’m seeing all my old running friends and new running friends.”

Matt Chorney took first place overall, running it in 16 minutes, 22 seconds. Jennifer Mortimer crossed the line at 17:24 and was the top women’s racer. 

The event also included a Kids Fun Run, led by NHTI senior George Hoffman. After the race, runners gathered for a post-run barbecue sponsored by the Davis & Towle Insurance Group while they waited for the Sox raffle announcement.

The next race in the series is the Canterbury Shaker Village cross country 5K on Saturday, May 17.

Alexander Rapp can be reached at arapp@cmonitor.com