This year’s Monster Dash, which drew nearly 350 runners and 150 children for a Kids’ Fun Run and other activities on Halloween, raised close to $10,000 for the Sam Cichello Memorial Fund. The fun run is held in memory of Sam Cichello, a student at the Tucker Elementary School who died following a playground accident in 1999.

Organized by the Milton Foundation for Education, the Sam Cichello fund supports hands-on science education in the Milton Public Schools. Now in its twelfth year, the 5K run/walk draws competitive and costumed runners of all ages and abilities to the starting line at Cunningham Foundation.

“We always feel very moved and grateful for all those who put in so much time, energy and support to make the event happen each year, especially those from the Milton Foundation for Education,” said Christine Kamp Cichello, Sam’s mother. “It is especially fun to see the kids and the joy they bring. It is also great knowing the money is used for hands-on science programs in the elementary schools. This is a great way to celebrate Sam’s life.”

In addition to the 5K run, which is timed by Spitler Race Systems, the afternoon includes a Kids’ Fun Run, costume parade and other activities. Proceeds from funds raised from entry fees, sponsorships and donations are administered by the Milton Foundation for Education and distributed in consultation with school officials and the Cichello family.

Milton Foundation for Education President Mary McLaughlin said the 12th edition of the race attracted long-time participants as well as new residents and young families from town.

“We had another beautiful day for the Monster Dash,” said McLaughlin. “It was great to see so many kids and adults in costume out on the road. We’re so happy that we can raise this money in Sam’s name for elementary science in the Milton Public Schools.”

The top male finishers were first-place runner Matt O’Brien, followed by Ted Coyle and Willie Archibald, all of Milton. The top female finishers were Brianna Butlin of Milton, Suzanne Walmsley of Franklin and Stephanie Hartwell of Milton.

“The 2010 Milton Monster Dash went off without a hitch,” said Yoshi Belash, an MFE board member. “We had great weather, lots of families and kids, and bunch of fun kids events that Terry Driscoll put together as part of a great team effort to organize the race.”

The organizers expressed their appreciation for the many sponsors and organizations who assisted, including: Art Matters in Milton, Bay State Physical Therapy, The Cunningham Foundation, Elizabeth DiPesa, East Milton Pediatric Association, Fitness Unlimited, Fruit Center Marketplace, Hannaford in Quincy, Elissa Heard DMD PC, Kinnealy Meats, Konditor Meister, Krokidas & Bluestein, Milton Chiropractic and Rehabilitation, Milton High School student volunteers, Milton Hospital, Milton Junior Women’s Club, Milton Parks and Recreation, Milton Police, Milton Times, The Gregory Monack Foundation, Planet Subaru, Shaw’s of Lower Mills, Dr. Dennis Sherman, DMD, Starbucks, Stop and Shop (Newport Ave., Quincy), Marc A. Susi Scholarship Fund, The Weymouth Club, Will Sand & Gravel and Janet Winchester.