Second Annual 'Race to Remember' 5K Set for October 10 in Manahawkin

MANAHAWKIN, N.J. — Runners, walkers, and community supporters will gather next month for the Second Annual "Race to Remember" 5K Run & Walk, held in loving tribute to Frankie Petillo Jr. The memorial event will take place on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026, at the Manahawkin Municipal Center.

For Frankie’s family, the event represents a deeply personal mission: turning tragedy into future dreams and accomplishments. Frankie, a Stafford resident and Southern Regional High School graduate, was taken in the prime of his life when he was struck by an irresponsible student driver while walking on his college campus. Highly motivated to help others in need, his family established The Frankie-Foundation (The Frank A. Petillo Jr. Foundation) so that his memory could continue to uplift young people.

Because Frankie lived life to its fullest, the foundation's goal is to help others do the same. Organizers are working to fulfill that purpose by raising funds to support local students who are active in dance, theatre, and the arts. Each year, the foundation awards multiple scholarships to local music and dance schools as well as graduating high school seniors who demonstrate Frankie’s selfless, inspirational spirit.

Organized in partnership with the Mayors Wellness Campaign and Stafford Recreation, the October 5K serves as the foundation’s primary community gathering and fundraiser.

Race-day check-in and packet pickup will open at 7:00 a.m., followed by the official race start at 8:00 a.m.

In addition to runners and walkers, organizers are welcoming community partners and local businesses through four tiered sponsorship opportunities:

• Platinum ($2,000): Prominent company logo placement on race shirts, digital branding and links on the event website, verbal recognition during the opening ceremony, and five complimentary race entries.
• Gold ($1,000): Logo featured on race shirts, company logo on the event website, opening ceremony recognition, and four complimentary entries.
• Silver ($500): Business or individual name listed on race shirts and the event website, along with two complimentary entries.
• Bronze ($250): Name listed on the event website and one complimentary entry.

Community members interested in participating can sign up online at raceforum.com/remember or by scanning the QR code featured on the event flyer.