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Neighbor News

YMCA of Montclair Proudly Hosts the 43rd Annual Montclair Run

Kick off the summer with hundreds of runners, walkers, volunteers, and community partners for this family-friendly event on Sunday, June 7.

Montclair, NJ — On Sunday, June 7, an anticipated 1,200+ runners, walkers, volunteers, and spectators from across Essex County and beyond will gather at the YMCA of Montclair for the 43rd Annual Montclair Run. The event features a Grand Prix 10K and a family-friendly 2-Mile Fun Run/Walk. The USATF-sanctioned 10K race is a fast & flat course that runs through two scenic parks.

Both races are chip timed. Free finish line photography is provided. Same day registration is available. Performance shirts and finisher medals are provided while supplies last.

The Montclair Run is a ‘Run for a Cause’ race. All race proceeds benefit the Y’s community health programs through direct financial assistance. The race is also funded by generous individual donors and sponsors. This year’s 10K Presenting Sponsors are Fette Ford KIA Infiniti of Clifton, Hackensack Meridian Mountainside Medical Center, and Milner Technologies. In total, 27 sponsors have stepped up to help fund community health programs, including the Mental Health Association of Essex and Morris and Dentistry for Children, this year’s 2-Mile Fun/Walk sponsors.

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“For 43 years, the Montclair Run has brought people together in support of healthy living, connection, and camaraderie. We’re especially inspired by the many teams participating in this year’s race, uniting friends, families, coworkers, and neighbors to encourage healthy habits and celebrate wellness as a community,” said Lisa Kievit, Executive Director of the Park Street YMCA. “We look forward to seeing runners and walkers of all ages cross the finish line together.”

All runners and walkers are encouraged to register online by June 6 at runsignup.com/Race/NJ/Montclair/TheMontclairRun.

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Race day in-person registration at the YMCA of Montclair, Park Street Branch at 25 Park Street is available on Sunday, June 7 from 6:30-7:30am for the 10K and 8:30-9:30am for the 2-Mile.

Race Day Schedule

  • 6:30–9:30 a.m. — Race Check-In
  • 8 a.m. — USATF-certified 10K Grand Prix begins
  • 10 a.m. — 2-Mile Fun Run/Walk begins

This year, award and finish medals will be handed out immediately at the finish line for 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).

“The Montclair Run is a lasting celebration of the strength and spirit of our community. Every participant — whether running, walking, or cheering from the sidelines — plays a role in creating meaningful impact and bringing people together around health and wellness,” said Buddy Evans, President and CEO of the YMCA of Montclair. “We’re especially excited to continue the celebration at this year’s Centennial Block Party, where the community can come together to honor this special milestone.”

As part of the race-day festivities, attendees are invited to celebrate the Park Street Y’s 100th anniversary at the Centennial Block Party, sponsored by Dentistry for Children. Held from 8:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m., the free community event will feature arts and crafts, games, sensory activities, and fun for the whole family.

For more information about the Montclair Run and to sign up to volunteer, visit https://www.montclairymca.org/montclair-run/.

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. History buffs can find the actual Montclair Times article at this link to read about the first run on June 5, 1983.

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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. The YMCA of Montclair offers financial assistance for childcare, summer camp, membership, and other programs to ensure opportunities for everyone to grow and thrive. Serving Bloomfield, Bloomingdale, Clifton, Cedar Grove, Glen Ridge, Haskell, Hewitt, Montclair, Verona, Wanaque, and West Milford. For more information, please visit montclairymca.org.

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