On Sunday morning, May 11, the second annual NCLS Dragon’s Path & CAAN Newton AAPI 5K/1K – a run and walk event– transformed 154 Wells Avenue into a celebration of community spirit and cultural pride.
Nearly 200 runners and volunteers of all ages and abilities attended the event, which was hosted by the Newton Chinese Language School (NCLS) and Chinese American Association of Newton (CAAN), in collaboration with local running clubs Boston Bulls and Boston Snails.
Participants had their choice to either run or walk either one or five kilometers around Wells Ave.
The race was organized to promote healthy living, community connection, and celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Month. NCLS principal Yujuan Yun, CAAN president Michelle Luo, race director Huahang Sun, and Boston Bulls Running Club head Huaiqin Wu opened the event, emphasizing its focus on community unity, cultural pride, and strength.
Guests and speakers included Mayor Ruthanne Fuller, Congressman Jake Auchincloss, State Representatives Amy Sangiolo and Greg Schwartz, City Councilor Rick Lipof, Boston Athletic Association (BAA) CEO Jack Fleming, and KACTUS CEO Edmund Wang.
Interviewed by NCLS youth journalists, BAA President and CEO Jack Flemming advised participants to, “Step out of your routine, get inspired, and discover your inner athlete.”
Some community members embraced the race as a unique way to celebrate Mother’s Day, bonding through shared strides and smiles.
The Dragon’s Path Newton AAPI 5K/1K combined fitness, cultural celebration, and connection, leaving attendees with lasting memories and strengthened ties within the community.
Ed. Note: We revised this article to reflect updated information from the Race Director of the event.
