Runners To Honor 9/11 Victims In Central Park Race

CENTRAL PARK, NY — Thousands of runners will lace up in Central Park this summer for a race rooted less in speed and more in remembrance.

The nonprofit New York Road Runners is teaming up with the 9/11 Memorial & Museum to host a four-mile commemorative race on Saturday, July 11, organizers said Monday.

About 5,000 runners are expected to take part in the annual event, which honors the 2,977 people killed in the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks.

This year’s race carries added weight as it comes ahead of the 25th anniversary of 9/11 this fall.

All proceeds will go toward supporting the memorial and museum, helping keep the outdoor memorial free to the public and expanding educational programs that reach students and communities nationwide.

Before the race begins, participants will gather for an opening ceremony featuring remarks honoring those lost and reflecting on the lasting impact of the attacks.

Organizers say the event is designed to bring people together in a shared act of remembrance.

"As the nonprofit that ‘runs’ New York City, we believe in the power of running to bring people together, and this race provides an opportunity for our community to reflect and remember those impacted by 9/11 while celebrating the resilience that defines our city," Rob Simmelkjaer, CEO of New York Road Runners, said.

Registration opens May 5 for NYRR members and May 7 for the general public.

Runners can participate in person or support the event by fundraising for the race. More information here.

For questions, email Miranda.Levingston@Patch.com.