Claire Rich was a treasured faculty member for nearly 25 years. She was a friend and dedicated teacher whose commitment and energy were evident not only in her classroom but also on the sports field, basketball court, and at summer camp. This particular meet was important to Claire because she coached our Lower School co-ed cross country team and helped coordinate this annual event.

 

“This is a special day for Hamden Hall because this meet pays tribute to a longtime member of our school community whom we lost last year,” said Head of School Bob Izzo. “We run this race today in memory of Claire. The determination and enthusiasm of today's cross country runners will match those same qualities that Claire embodied.”  

 

The runners were joined by Mr. Izzo, Director of Lower School Lorri Carroll, Director of Middle School Brian Christman, Director of Upper School Kim Porto 1987, Lower School faculty members, and other administrators and colleagues for a reception prior to the race. The Rich family including Bruce Rich and children, Nolan Rich 2009 and Ellen Rich Mayer 2010, and granddaughter Nora Mayer were all in attendance and they were presented with a framed T-shirt that featured the Invitational's new name and logo.

 

The race concluded with the Boys' Team placing second and eighth-grader Gabi Pereira placing first for the Girls' Team.