St. James 5-Mile Run To Support New Suffolk County Ronald McDonald House

SAINT JAMES, NY — More than 500 runners are expected to participate in the second annual St. James/Head of the Harbor Certified 5-Mile Challenge and 5K Fun Run on Saturday, according to a news release.

The course starts with an uphill climb leveling off at the half mile mark, followed by three miles of rolling hills through the scenic village of Head of the Harbor. Racers will then take on the iconic Cordwood Path, a half mile incline that challenges the best runners. The race finishes with a flat and fast finish. Runners (and walkers) can register here.

Money raised will go toward the construction of the new Ronald McDonald House at Stony Brook Children’s Hospital, scheduled to begin construction this spring. This will be the first Ronald McDonald House located in Suffolk County, and only the second on Long Island.

The other Ronald McDonald House is in New Hyde Park on the border of Queens, located next to Cohen Children’s Medical Center.

The three-story, 60,000 sq. ft. building will include 30 private bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms for families, outdoor playgrounds, interactive playrooms, home-schooling spaces, and workspaces. It will also include three community kitchens providing free meals made by volunteers and fully stocked pantries, a fitness center, a wellness center, and laundry facilities.

Registration/check-in is slated to begin at 7 a.m., and the race begins at 9 a.m. People can register for $45.

Awards will be presented to the top three finishers in all age groups, including 14-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74, 75-79, 80-99, and top three finishers overall for women and men.

A block party-style celebration will follow the race, beginning around 9:30 a.m. Attractions will include music, 50/50 raffle, a beer garden, kids games and activities, food trucks, vendor row and more. The community is invited to come out and enjoy the camaraderie.