Montclair Run means you run for a cause.
The Montclair community is getting ready for the 31st annual Montclair Run, an event co-sponsored by the Montclair YMCA and the township of Montclair. The run is composed of two different races: a two mile walk/run and a 10K. The walk/run begins at 8:30 a.m. and the 10K follows at 9:30 a.m. The Montclair Run is open to all members of the community and is an effort to raise money for scholarships.
According to Carol Kearney, program coordinator for the YMCA of Montclair, there are over 1,000 set to walk and run in this year’s Montclair Run. Their goal is to draw in runners, families, school children and people from all over the area. “We give some [incentives] to help get people involved,” said Kearney. “For example, the Montclair public school with the most participants gets $100 for their gym class.”
Additionally, prizes are awarded after both of the races have completed.
The races are not the only things planned for the event. According to Kearney, there is a DJ scheduled for after the run, as well as children’s games, a moonwalk, refreshments and sport massages.
However, Kearney has not done all of the planning for the race on her own. She and Pat Brechka, director of recreation and cultural affairs for the township of Montclair, have directed the Montclair Run together for over 28 years.
“Pat is a huge part of [this event],” said Kearner. “It’s a dual thing. We’re both co sponsors, and this wouldn’t [happen] without her.”
The dedication of both Kearney and Brechka has been apparent in the success of the past 30 races. The runners include participants mostly from Essex and Passaic county. However, the event has grown so much that last year, some racers came from New York and Pennsylvania, according to Kearney. Additionally, the ages of racers range from four years old to 80.
Kearney and Brechka also find a great deal of support from the surrounding community, such as Studio042, a local printing company. “Studio042 is happy to provide some of the printing needed for the event,” said Scott Kennedy, CEO of Studio042 and Chair of the Board of the Montclair YMCA.
All proceeds from this event go towards local scholarships, as well as both township and YMCA activities. Those interested in participating in the event can register online.
Paper applications are also available at the YMCA of Montclair, the Township of Montclair’s Department of Recreation and Cultural Affairs at 205 Claremont Ave. and Fleet Feet Sports at 603 Bloomfield Ave.
The participation fee for racers is $33 for adults in the 10K, $17.25 for youth (under 16) in the 10K, $28 for adults in the two mile and $17.25 for youth (under 16) in the two mile. Both races begin in front of the YMCA of Montclair at 25 Park Street.
You must be logged in to post a comment Login