Runners To Shut Down Route 206 Bypass In New 5K Race In Hillsborough

HILLSBOROUGH, NJ — Runners will be shutting down Route 206 in Hillsborough as they take on a newly created 5K race called The Chase on Saturday, Sept. 27.

For over a decade, the Hillsborough community has come together on the last Sunday in September for the Steeplechase Distance Run, benefiting the Steeplechase Cancer Center at RWJUH Somerset.

"Unfortunately, due to rising costs, the event was discontinued. As its former race director, I was committed to preserving the spirit of that event while also evolving it into something fresh, exciting, and aligned with current trends in the racing community," said Steps Together Founder Courtney Newman.

The Chase offers some exciting new perks to its race. For the first time ever, the entire Hillsborough Bypass will be shut down for a fast, flat, and unforgettable out-and-back 5K with just one turn.

"Post-COVID running has kind of boomed, because it's kind of been this free therapy, if you will, for so many," said Michael Pappalardo of Cadence Physical Therapy, who is helping to organize the race."When the Steeplechase got canceled, we wanted to do something that continues sharing the spirit of running in Hillsborough... And Courtney said, 'Hey, what about the bypass?' Which is the most iconic road in Hillsborough. So now this is kind of our chance to give runners that experience and that opportunity to run on a super fast and flat highway and a closed-off course that gives them a truly energetic and unforgettable experience."

Additionally, the race is offering a $5,000 prize purse, the largest for a 5K in New Jersey.

"This will attract elite runners from across the region, generating significant interest and driving visitors and their spending to Hillsborough," said Newman. "It’s an opportunity to highlight our town, our businesses, and our community spirit."

Included in the prize money is $500 for the fastest male and female Hillsborough resident.

The Chase is a true Hillsborough collaboration presented by three local businesses: Newman Racing, Cadence Physical Therapy, and Flounder Brewing.

The 5K also provides a powerful fundraising platform for local nonprofits. The Chase has built a structure where donations and fundraising go directly to each nonprofit’s account, with zero processing by the race itself.

Current and prospective partners include:

• Steps Together – Supporting local families facing medical crises
• Steeplechase Cancer Center @ RWJUH Somerset – the cancer center that serves the community
• Live Like Linda – Supporting local cancer warriors (a charity important to Jeremy Lees of Flounder Brewing)
• MTA Foundation – founded by the Medawar family (Abed Medawar is the upcoming Rotary President)
• Hillsborough PBA - devoted to maintaining a safe and fair working environment for its members so that they may effectively serve the residents of the Township of Hillsborough
• Hillsborough Fire Company #2 - volunteer fire company

This model allows each organization to raise funds and increase visibility, with no cost or administrative burden.

"All of those funds go directly to that charity. They're not processed through us in any way. So it's a great opportunity to have a big impact in our community," said Newman.

As of Wednesday, more than 250 people are registered, and more than $1,800 has been raised for charities.

Newman is an avid runner and said she is excited to see the hundreds of runners shut down the highway and race.

"It should be exciting, and then runners will be finishing at the firehouse with Flouder Brewing, who is hosting a beer garden for people of age," said Newman.

The Chase will be held on Saturday, Sept. 27 at 5 p.m. at 375 Route 206 in Hillsborough. Registration $45 ($3 discount for USATF).

Volunteer opportunities are also available at The Chase Volunteer Registration.

For more information or to register, visit RaceTheChase.com. Sponsorship opportunities are also available for businesses that wish to get involved.

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