Tenafly—On Sunday, May 10, the Kaplen JCC on the Palisades will hold its annual Rubin Run, drawing people from throughout the tri-state area and beyond to participate in an exciting athletic community event. Each year, hundreds of families and runners share in a meaningful celebration that focuses on family and fitness to raise significant funds for children and adults with special needs. Last year, this USATF (United States Track and Field) authorized run attracted more than 1,250 runners, thousands of community supporters, and more than 50 sponsors. Together, they collected more than $150,000 in contributions to help the JCC provide invaluable programming and services for a growing population of people with special challenges.
The event is held on Mother’s Day each year as a celebration of family togetherness. Participants are encouraged to raise funds and build teams, and the day’s success is largely due to their efforts, as well as the generosity of others who sponsor the event.
“The vital funds raised from the Rubin Run helps the JCC fulfill a core mission,” says JCC Chief Executive Officer Avi A. Lewinson. “By supporting this effort, we gain a rare and rewarding opportunity to help people with special needs live more productive, meaningful lives and flourish to their full potential.”
This signature event is also dedicated to helping people realize their best fitness potential. The Rubin Run offers a half marathon at 7:30 am, a 10K at 8:30 am, and a 5K run/walk at 10 am, providing something for everyone at every level. In preparation for the race, participants can attend specialized training under the skilled guidance of professional athletes and experienced JCC fitness staff. Options include independent training, running clubs for beginners and seasoned athletes who want to group train, one-on-one personal training with an experienced running coach, as well as a 5K training program for youth, ages 6–13.
Seasoned athletes, walkers, and people just looking to spend some time with family and friends can all participate. The day will also feature a free brunch, kids carnival, free babysitting, pre-race stretches and warm-ups, precision CompuScore race-recording, great giveaways, and
trophies to the top three male and female winners in each age category and medals for all children under 10 who finish the race. And, in honor of Mother’s Day, all participating moms will receive roses as they cross the finish line.
Individuals or teams interested in participating can register online at www.jccotp.org/rubinrun or visit the JCC website at www.jccotp.org. Early bird registration is now through April 26 and electronic kiosks will be available for last-minute, race-day registration. The Run’s current lead sponsors are The Kaplen Foundation, Englewood Hospital and Medical Center, the Jewish Standard, and the Northern Valley Suburbanite. To become a sponsor or to discuss special recognition opportunities, contact Jeff Nadler, the JCC’s Chief Development Officer, at 201-408-1412, or [email protected] and visit www.jccotp.org/rubinrun. For information on the Run and training opportunities, please call Irene at 201-408-1472.
The Rubin Run is named for the late Leonard Rubin, a past president and founder of the JCC, who established this community-wide athletic event to encourage and promote healthy living.
