Kick off the summer by joining hundreds of runners, walkers, volunteers, and community partners for this family-friendly event on Sunday, June 4.
Montclair, NJ – It’s time to get your retro gear on and lace up those sneakers for the 40th Annual Montclair Run! This year’s event promises to be a funky and fun time for participants of all ages.
On Sunday, June 4, runners, walkers, volunteers, and spectators from across Essex County and beyond will gather at the YMCA of Montclair for the Grand Prix 10K and 2-mile Fun Run/Walk. The USATF Sanctioned 10K Run, designed for more serious runners, will take participants through two scenic parks on a flat course.
Participants are encouraged to don their favorite “retro” wear, from stellar spandex to totally tubular tube socks. It’s the perfect opportunity to show off your style while supporting a great cause. Retro wear is not required but encouraged.
“I am so excited for this year’s run,” said Buddy Evans, President and CEO of the YMCA of Montclair. “Since the 1980s, the Montclair Run has been a unifying community spring event that also raises monies to help our community. I want to thank all the volunteers, runners/walkers, and our sponsors for making this event what it is today.”
The 10K Presenting Sponsors this year are Fette Ford KIA Infiniti of Clifton and Hackensack Meridian Mountainside Medical Center.
“We enjoy supporting this community event that brings people together, gets them to challenge themselves, and all for a good cause,” said John and Kristin Fette, Fette Ford-KIA-Infiniti, Clifton.
“The Y’s chronic disease programming complements the mission of our hospital, making a great partnership,” said Tim O’Brien, CEO of Mountainside Medical Center. “And we love cheering on our Mountainside Medical Center running club every year.”
In total, 21 sponsors have stepped up to help fund chronic disease financial assistance, including the Mental Health Association of Essex and Morris, this year’s 2 Mile Fun/Walk sponsor.
The Montclair Run was created in 1983 when Montclair Recreation Director Perry Doerr enlisted Dave Hartop of the Montclair YMCA to recreate a springtime run. Perry Doerr personally mapped out the route. This year will mark the 40th Montclair Run event. However, for at least a decade, the YMCA of Montclair stated the run started in 1982. History buffs can find the actual Montclair Times article at this link to read about the first run on June 5, 1983.
All runners and walkers are encouraged to register online by May 31st at runsignup.com/Race/NJ/Montclair/TheMontclairRun.
Race day in-person registration at the YMCA of Montclair, Park Street Branch at 25 Park Street is available on Sunday, June 4, from 6:30-7:30am for the 10K and 8:30-9:30am for the 2-Mile.
All proceeds benefit the YMCA’s chronic disease programs. The YMCA of Montclair also offers financial assistance for childcare, summer camp, membership, and other programs to ensure opportunities for everyone to grow and thrive.
Race Day Schedule
6:30-9:30am Race Check-In
8am USATF certified 10K Grand Prix starts
10am 2-Mile Fun Run/Walk starts
The awards ceremony immediately follows each race. For the 10K, medals will be awarded to the top 3 finishers (male and female) in each age category. For the 2 Mile, medals will be awarded to the top 3 finishers overall (male and female). All runners will receive a commemorative medal in celebration of this special run anniversary and a T-shirt.
The races begin and end in front of the YMCA of Montclair, 25 Park Street, Montclair.
For further information about the Montclair Run and to sign up to volunteer, visit https://www.montclairymca.org/montclair-run/.
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ABOUT THE YMCA OF MONTCLAIR
Established in 1891, the YMCA of Montclair welcomes all. We are a nonprofit that strengthens individuals, families, and community by developing spirit, mind, and body. Working locally, we focus on empowering young people, improving health and well-being, and inspiring action in and across communities. Serving Bloomfield, Bloomingdale, Clifton, Cedar Grove, Glen Ridge, Haskell, Hewitt, Montclair, Verona, Wanaque, and West Milford. For more information, please visit montclairymca.org.