Almost everyone knows someone whose life has been affected by cancer: Many have friends, family, or neighbors who have been impacted by the disease, or even themselves. And in true Rockaway fashion, the community has come up with ways to help make it a little easier for those battling the disease. The 8th Annual Catch a Cure 5K is Sunday, October 4.
On October 4, Rockaway will once again run and walk on behalf of Rockaway, Breezy Point and Broad Channel residents dealing with cancer, in hopes of one day finding a cure for them and those across the globe. The Catch a Cure 5K is an annual event that raises money for local residents impacted by cancer, in memory of those who have unfortunately passed away due to cancer and in honor of those who have been victorious in their battles with the disease.
Started in 2017 by Rockaway locals,ww Robin Hoffman, Megan Rochelle, Jean Condon, and Linda Humphrey, The Catch a Cure 5K has become a successful annual event. Catch a Cure is a 501c3, that raises funds at this event through entry fees, t-shirt sales, a big 50/50 raffle for $20 a ticket, plus generous donations from local businesses and neighbors. The 5K event is open to all, whether you’re running, jogging, or walking. This year’s Catch a Cure is in memory of Pam “Nonni” O’Grady of Rockaway, Kerri O’Shea of Breezy Point, and Jack Palmese of Broad Channel. It is being run in honor of Grace Carey of Rockaway, Colleran of Breezy Point and Evelyn Malsy of Broad Channel.
Participants can pre-register in person this Thursday, October 1 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Belle Harbor Yacht (533 Beach,126th St.) where participants who already registered online can also pick up their event-shirts and bibs, or online at Rockawaytc.org by October 3. Due to the growth of the event, Catch a Cure’s homebase for the day will by The Wharf (416 Beach 116th St.). Day of registration will take place on Sunday, October 4 from 7:30 a.m. to 8:45 a.m. at The Wharf. There will be a shuttle to take people from The Wharf to the boardwalk if they wish to use it.
The race begins promptly at 9 a.m. on the Beach 116th boardwalk on Sunday. Awards and 50/50 announcement will take place back at The Wharf following the run/ walk.
For those who want to purchase 50/50 tickets, a $20 payment can be sent to Megan Rochelle through Venmo (@Megan-Rochelle). Include your phone number and Catch a Cure 50/50 in the memo. For more information about the run and to pre-register, head to: www.Rockawaytc.org
For updates, make sure to follow Catch a Cure 5K on Facebook and @catchacurerockaway on Instagram.
