(Courtesy of the Union Y) On Sunday April 30, the Union Y hosted a “Fly for the Y” 5K run and walk for the Hillside, Elizabeth, Linden and Springfield communities. The 5K took advantage of a brief period of dry weather in a weekend that was otherwise a continuous torrential downpour.

Tomer Shoham (45) (from Be’er Sheva by way of Manhattan) was the winner (along with his canine running companion) with a time of 21:58, followed a few seconds later by Zev Rosen.  The top female finisher was Chana Sullivan followed by Susy Berk.

Competitor Tamar Sullivan commented that, “It was inspiring to see community members of all ages running together—6 year olds and 60 year olds side by side—pushing each other on and enjoying the friendly competition. I can’t wait for next year’s race! It was an incredibly rewarding experience. I was able to set a new personal 5K record and give a little back to the community in the process, ” Yehuda Schupper observed. Shmuely Saklad, who cheered on the competitors, said that “The Fly for the Y was a great way to get some exercise while showing support for this important institution in our community that we all benefit from.”

Attendees enjoyed complimentary bagels and doughnuts, and complimentary bounce houses and cotton candy were available for young children.

The 5K and carnival were generously sponsored by the RSM US Foundation, TWRG Realty Group and Lightning Laundry Laundromat in Newark, among others.

Thank you to our sponsors and everyone who attended.