NORTH BERGEN – Nearly 500 local runners of all skill levels will have a chance to traverse a unique course with breathtaking Manhattan views, all while contributing to a worthy cause during the Nicholas J. Sacco Foundation’s inaugural Sacco 5K Charity Fun Run this Saturday, May 16. The event will be held within James J. Braddock Hudson County Park in North Bergen, spanning parts of JFK Boulevard East before finishing on the running track at Bruins Stadium.
Registration is still open and more information is available on the race website at www.sacco5k.org. On-site registration begins at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, with the race set for 10 a.m. and the post-race celebration planned for 11 a.m.
“This 5K event will take advantage of the beautiful natural scenery within Braddock Park as well as the picturesque Manhattan views along Boulevard East, giving it a very exciting backdrop for runners,” said North Bergen Mayor Nicholas Sacco, who heads the foundation, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that provides social services and charitable donations to North Bergen and the surrounding communities. The foundation contributes generously to local food pantries and has provided direct relief funding to displaced victims of fires and other disasters. For the past three years it has also provided free income tax preparation services to senior citizens and disabled residents.
The Sacco 5K course has been certified by USA Track and Field, and awards will be given to participants in various age groups. All runners will receive a commemorative t-shirt and there will be a post-race party and BBQ for runners and spectators with food and refreshments. Registration fees are $25 for runners and $20 for post-race party only. More than 20 sponsors have signed on to the race including primary sponsor Palisades Medical Center.