Runners, Community Welcome Return Of Red Bank Classic Race

RED BANK, NJ —For the first time since 2019, more than 1,400 runners and walkers returned to Red Bank for the Red Bank Classic 5K and Kids Fun Run to benefit youth programs at the local YMCA.

Both the top male and female finishers set new course records for the challenging course, certified by USA Track and Field, organizers of the event said.

Sean Donohue, 31, of Middletown, was the first across the finish line in 15 minutes and 38 seconds, smashing the previous course record of 16:17. He was followed by Ryan Mulligan, 32, of Hazlet in 16:22, and Ean Jaffe, 21 of Holmdel, in 16:39.

Leading the women’s field was 28-year-old Shannon McCarthy, of Hoboken, clocking in at a record-breaking 17:34. The former Rumson Fair Haven Regional High School student was eighth overall.

The second-place female finisher was Megan Flynn, 29, of Ringoes, in 18:23, followed by Erika Flores, 32, of South Bound Brook, at 18:39.

Eighty-four teams competed in the 5K. In first place was Red Bank Eye; second place went to Alpha Fit Club; and in third place was Shore AC, organizers said.

Complete live race results, provided by Split Second Racing, are available here:

The charity event June 18 started on Monmouth Street, drawing runners and walkers of all ages, organizers said, "from the Boondocks Fishery team wearing red tutus and handing out lobster-shaped candy along the route to 78-year-old Claire Arno, walking in memory of her 11-year-old grandson, Luca Iacono, who passed away from cancer in 2019."

Mayor Pasquale “Pat” Menna welcomed the crowd of 1,420 runners and walkers, many who waited three years for the 3.1-mile trek.

“It was pure joy to bring the community together again,” said Angela Courtney, owner of Sweetest Sin Boutique on White Street and one of the founders of the charity run/walk, established by a group of health-minded business owners in 2018.

Organized and hosted by the Red Bank Business Alliance and Red Bank RiverCenter, the 5K was presented by co-sponsors Boondocks Fishery and The Grunin Foundation, with support from over 50 local businesses and scores of volunteers, Courtney said.

Following the 5K and kids run, runners, walkers and spectators enjoyed live music from the Victoria Taylor Band and an after-party hosted by Red Tank Brewing Company.

A portion of the event proceeds will support programs at the Red Bank Family YMCA to help local children recover from impacts of the pandemic and underwrite free swim lessons for Red Bank third-graders, Courtney noted. “After everything our kids have been through, we’re thankful that this community event will have a lasting impact,” she said.