It’s that time of year again for those who enjoy running and walking outdoors, especially for a good cause.
The 13th annual Memorial 5K Run/Walk, organized by the 49th Precinct, will be held on Saturday, September 13 along Pelham Parkway.
This event stands as a dedication to the victims of 9-11 as well as Thomas Clesse, a lieutenant who worked at the 49th Precinct for over 35 years before passing away after battling cancer in 2000, unrelated to the 9-11 attacks.
Sponsored by the 49th Precinct and Simone Development at Hutchinson Metro Center, this event is only getting bigger, and should have one of its highest attendances this year, according to Joe Thompson, President of the 49th Precinct Community Council.
“Many can now make references to this event because they’ve attended it before,” said Joe Thompson, who started the event in Thomas Clesse’s name in 2001.
“If people attended the event in previous years, that means more people will attend it this year, whether they heard about it, read about it or even saw the shirts we have given out in years past.”
The 5K Run/Walk includes under 50/over 50 races, trophies for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners, a free t-shirt and a free lunch provided after the race for participating runners.
Also, all children under 13 who participate will receive a medal. There will even be a raffle for dinner-for-two at F&J Pine Restaurant.
Tickets cost $20 for those over 13 who are running or walking, with registration taking place from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. in front of the 49th Precinct at 2121 Eastchester Road.
The route will start at Pelham Parkway South and Eastchester Road leading to Pelham Parkway and White Plains Road, and eventually ending in the same place it began. The roads will be closed to everyone but the runners and walkers during the race to increase safety precautions.
All of the proceeds from this event will be donated to the widows and orphans of fallen police officers from the five boroughs.
Victor DiPierro, who has worked at the 49th Precinct since 1996, says that this event is a great way to bring the entire community together in a place where everyone is welcome.
He also said that this event is more about remembrance than it is about a race.
“This is a day remembering Thomas Clesse and his family, along with those who were victims as a result of 9-11,” said DiPierro. “We want people to show up and participate in this event because of its overall meaning to the community and those who have been affected.”
