This year, not only will North Hunterdon's principal, Rich Bergacs, be running the race, but joining him will be Ron Peterson, principal of Voorhees High School. "We wanted to create more buzz and friendly competition amongst the student body at both high schools this year," explains Graham, "so we came up with the idea of the Principal's Challenge."
The North Hunterdon Education Foundation's (NHEF) second annual 'Running of the Lions' 5K Run/Walk will take place on Sunday, Oct. 11, at Spruce Run Reservoir. This year, not only will North Hunterdon's principal, Rich Bergacs, be running the race, but joining him will be Ron Peterson, principal of Voorhees High School. (courtesy photo)The North Hunterdon Education Foundation's (NHEF) second annual "Running of the Lions" 5K Run/Walk will take place on Sunday, Oct. 11, at Spruce Run Reservoir. Walk-up registration on race day begins at 9 a.m. with the race beginning at 10 a.m. - rain or shine.
"Last year's turnout exceeded our expectations and the feedback was great!" said Fran Graham, race coordinator and NHEF trustee. " I expect we could see 500 runners this year."
This year, not only will North Hunterdon's principal, Rich Bergacs, be running the race, but joining him will be Ron Peterson, principal of Voorhees High School. "We wanted to create more buzz and friendly competition amongst the student body at both high schools this year," explains Graham, "so we came up with the idea of the Principal's Challenge."
The Challenge has Principal Bergacs dressing as a zombie for the Voorhees Zombie 5k and in return, Principal Peterson will be a special guest runner at the Running of the Lions. As a way to build anticipation and excitement at the two schools, North Hunterdon Education Foundation tapped North senior, Jack Graham, to produce an amusing video series featuring the principals sharing some of their dubious 'training methods'. To view these videos, go to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4wJImHu0j8A
On race day, local yoga and Jazzercise instructors will be at the event to lead runners in pre-and post -race stretching sessions. There will be live music and a DJ to enjoy as well as face painting and door prizes. Awards and refreshments will follow at 10:30 a.m.
Online registration is open until Oct. 9, with the registration fee being $25. Walkup registrants on race day will pay $30. A $5 discount is offered to students in surrounding schools. Students should check their school websites for codes.
All funds raised at the event will directly support North Hunterdon High School students through educational programs. North Hunterdon Education Foundation is a nonprofit organization made up of parents and community members.
Runners and walkers can pre-register at: https://runsignup.com/Race/NJ/Clinton/TheRunningOfTheLions5Kand1MileFunWalk
For more information on the North Hunterdon Education Foundation or to register for the race, visit www.nhhsfoundation.org.