MHS Students Co-Host 5K Road Race in Brookdale Park On September 26

Get those running shoes on! The second annual Interfaith Hospitality Network of Essex County 5K road race is coming up in Brookdale Park on Sunday, September 26 at 5 p.m.

Along with Fleet Feet Sports, Montclair High School senior Jonathan Green and junior Lila Rosenman will be hosting the event, which is designed to benefit homeless families housed through the Interfaith Hospitality Network of Essex County.

"The organization provides support services, including housing in county churches and synagogues, for homeless families," Green said.

He said that the event was launched last year by current college freshmen Sally Goodman and Molly Bangs. Despite very rainy weather, he said that there was a great turnout by runners of all ages.

The race will feature "outstanding prizes" from many local businesses that have donated gift cards, and will be followed by refreshments. Prizes will be awarded to the winners in various age groups.

Green said he became involved at the urging of Goodman and Bangs, who were his teammates on the MHS cross-country team.

"I volunteered at the race last year and — after hearing a bit more about what IHN does and volunteering at my synagogue with IHN — I was eager to help plan the race," he said. "Last year, turnout was a bit low because of an awful rain storm, but this year we hope to get about 200 runners, and would certainly hope for even more than that if possible." 

Anyone interested in participating can pick up an application at Fleet Feet Sports on Bloomfield Avenue or at the Montclair YMCA. Applications are also available here. The registration fee is $20 if you are signing up on race day. Any questions or requests for applications should be sent to ihnrace@gmail.com.