Annual 5k 'Run for the Health of It' Returns

The 13th annual Run for the Health of It 5K Race/Walk, hosted by the Visiting Nurse Service & Hospice of Suffolk (VNSHS), will return to Northport on May 11.

Race director Barbara Sorelle is expecting a turnout of between 350 to 400 runners and walkers for the 5k event plus many more for the kids’ fun run taking place before the race.

The race is expected to draw many of the finest local runners, as it is part of USA Track & Field Long Island road racing grand prix. In the grand prix runners complete a series of races to win end of year regional honors. 

The voice of Long Island road racing, Terry Bisogno, will be on hand to call the race for spectators. Last year, the race was won by Kieran Gibbons in a time of 18:16, Kathryn Martin won the women’s division in 19:57 over the rolling hills of Northport.

There is prize money for the top 3 male and female runners and first masters’ male and female (40 yrs old +) finishers. In recognition of nurses (VNSHS) will also have an award for the first Nursing professional to finish.   

VNSHS will be providing hundreds of giveaways including gift certificates for theatre tickets, massages, the Cradle of Aviation museum, Adventureland, Copenhagen Bakery, Salons, and more. Face painters, children characters, and games will entertain youngsters.

The race starts at the VNSHS office at 505 Main Street in Northport at 9 a.m. The kids’ race will commence at 8:30 a.m.

5k Pre registration is $20 thru May 8, kids run (untimed) Pre registration is $10.

Proceeds from the event support VNSHS annual bereavement retreat for children. 

For further information contact Barbara Sorelle 631 930 9310. Atria Retirement Living, Shore Drugs and Northport Running Club are race sponsors.