It’s the quote that launched a thousand runners: “I am fairly certain that given a cape and a nice tiara, I could save the world.”

While the Tiara Classic Mother’s Day 5K Race and Walk had more sweat wicking spandex than capes, plenty of participants donned tiaras for the event, which raises money to help women across the South Coast.

The annual race, named after co-organizer Laura Stone’s favorite quote, started when several women approached Kate Fentress, executive director of the Women’s Fund, about starting a fundraising road race.

The sixth annual race took place on Sunday, May 13. Fentress said, “The race is a signature event for the Women’s Fund. It’s become a wonderful family friendly way to start Mother’s Day.”

The New Bedford based Women’s Fund works to improve the lives of women on the South Coast through programs that educate and build financial stability.

Fentress said the race has grown incrementally since it started, and this year’s registration was set to be ahead of 2011 numbers.

“We’re hoping to have about 1200 people, maybe 1300 including children.”

Starting and ending at the Oxford Creamery, the route wound through Mattapoisett village.

Children had their own fun run before the adult race began at 9:30 a.m.

“It’s such a pretty race site,” said Fentress. “It’s a nice morning for people. They can be with their families. You’re done by 11 a.m. and can still go and celebrate Mother’s Day some other way.

Fentress hoped to net over $52,000 through registration fees, donations and sponsorships.

“This year we’ve gotten a bit more sophisticated,” said Fentress. “We have chips for the race rather than having people flagged as they cross the finish line. Because it’s all volunteer organizers we’ve been able to keep our expenses down.”

Fentress said there was a new way to give this year as well. By texting WOMEN to 50555, anyone can donate $10 to the organization from May 12 to 19.

Participants were also asked to bringing a non-perishable food item to donation to the Mattapoisett Food Pantry.