25th Annual “Bridge to Beach” 5K Run/Walk for Literacy Set for This Saturday at Smith Point

SHIRLEY, N.Y. — Runners and walkers of all ages and abilities will take to one of Long Island's most scenic courses this Saturday, Sept. 12, for the 25th Annual Smith Point Bridge "Bridge to Beach" 5K Run/Walk for Literacy, beginning at 9 a.m. at Smith Point County Park in Shirley.

The annual race takes participants across the historic Smith Point Bridge, with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Fire Island, before finishing near the beach. Proceeds benefit literacy initiatives supported by the Community Family Literacy Project, Inc., a separate 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization that supports literacy programs serving the Mastics-Moriches-Shirley community. The race also supports the William Floyd High School Scholarship Fund and the Reach Out and Read program at Sun River Health Center.

Subscribe

"This event really represents so much of what our library and this community are about: bringing people together while creating opportunities for people of every age and background," said Lonna Castro, Director of the Mastics-Moriches-Shirley Community Library. "Literacy can open the door to education, employment, citizenship and greater participation in community life. It is wonderful to see hundreds of people come together each year to support that mission while enjoying one of the most beautiful places on Long Island."

The race has grown considerably during its quarter-century history. Last year's 24th annual event attracted 527 finishers, a record turnout, including competitive runners, student athletes, families and community residents.

"Twenty-five years is a remarkable milestone, and this race has become a tradition that people genuinely look forward to," said Joseph A. Maiorana, President of the Mastics-Moriches-Shirley Community Library Board of Trustees and himself a competitive runner. "There is something special about seeing runners, walkers, volunteers, families and spectators filling Smith Point for an event that celebrates both our community and an important cause. We hope people who have participated before will come back Saturday, and we especially encourage those who have never joined us to make this the year they do."

The Community Family Literacy Project, Inc. works in support of literacy services in the area served by the Mastics-Moriches-Shirley Community Library. Its efforts include programs and services for learners of all ages, as well as citizenship scholarships for adult library patrons preparing to become U.S. citizens. This year, three citizenship scholarships were awarded to individuals from Colombia, the Dominican Republic and Pakistan who are preparing to apply for naturalization.

"The dollars raised through events like the 5K turn into very real opportunities for people in our community," said Lindsay Davis, Executive Director of the Community Family Literacy Project, Inc. "They help us promote literacy from early childhood through adulthood and support people who are working toward goals that can change their lives. That can mean helping a child develop a love of reading, supporting a student heading to college or helping an adult take the final steps toward becoming a U.S. citizen. The race is fun, but there is a very meaningful purpose behind it."

The race begins at 9 a.m. sharp, rain or shine, with check-in and same-day registration available from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. Participants are encouraged to arrive early because the Smith Point Bridge will close to traffic by approximately 8:45 a.m. Advance registration is $30, while race-day registration is $35. T-shirts are guaranteed to the first 400 registrants.

The event is open to runners and walkers of all ability levels, from serious competitors to families and recreational participants. Awards will be presented to the top three male and female finishers overall, as well as the top three male and female finishers in 16 age divisions ranging from 9 and younger through 80 and older.

Post-race activities include an awards ceremony, refreshments, and other festivities. Spectators are also encouraged to attend and cheer on participants. The race is sanctioned by USA Track & Field Long Island.

To register or obtain additional information, visit 5kbridgerun.communitylibrary.org.