Rafael's Race

Rafael’s Race was sponsored by the Greenbelt Elementary School PTA. The race was powered by teachers and families who were moved by the unstoppable spirit of Rafael Martins, a 4th-grade student at GES, who sadly passed away in October of 2009. Rafael’s last day of school was a field trip to Bladensburg Waterfront Park, where he and his classmates took part in learning about nature and animal habitats. As the class was leaving to return to school, Rafael saw an American Bald Eagle soaring overhead.

Proceeds from the races supported the PTA’s mission to offer activities that enhance the joy and well-being of GES students and staff in a way that complements and enriches the learning environment. All proceeds collected from this race in past years were used to support student field trips and to send students to Camp Sunshine; a retreat for kids with life-threatening illnesses and their families.

Update!

While the PTA will not be hosting Rafael's Race this year, we want to keep this page active in remembrance of Rafael and in support of his family.