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Jamaica 5K Run/3K Walk slated to go off May 19


The popular event will begin at 8:30 a.m. at the…

By The TimesLedger

Registration is now open for people of all ages and with all levels of athletic ability to take part in the 9th Annual Jamaica 5K Run/3K Walk on Saturday, May 19, along the streets of Jamaica Center.

The popular event will begin at 8:30 a.m. at the Jamaica YMCA, located at 89-25 Parsons Blvd., with runners covering 3.1 miles and walkers 1.9 miles. The finish line also is at the Y.

Sponsored by the Jamaica YMCA and the Downtown Committee of Greater Jamaica Development Corporation, the annual Run/Walk attracts serious short-distance runners as well as casual runners and walkers.

“This is an excellent opportunity to start to get in shape for the summer or continue a good workout routine,” said Victoria Williams, executive director of the Jamaica YMCA.

All participants will receive a one-week Fitness Pass to the Jamaica Y.

“This event is a great way to see the historic and commercial sites of Jamaica and get exercise at the same time,” noted William D. Martin, director of Community Affairs for Verizon, and chair of the Downtown Committee of the non-profit Greater Jamaica Development Corporation.

Businesses, government and service agencies, schools, religious organizations and other groups are encouraged to form teams and compete for special team prizes.

The top winner will receive a year’s membership to the Jamaica Y. The first male and female finishers will be awarded $250 in cash and gift certificates to Modell’s.

Medals will be presented to the first three run finishers in all age groups, in male and female categories. Walkers completing the course will have their numbers placed in a raffle for prizes. The first 100 Run/Walk participants to preregister will get commemorative T-shirts.

Registration forms are available at the Jamaica YMCA and The Jamaica Market, located at 159-15 Jamaica Ave. The entry fee is $15, including a $5 donation to the Y. Proceeds will go to the Jamaica YMCA Youth Summer Camp Fund.

For additional information, call the Y at 739-6600.