Proceeds to help people with disabilities

January 28, 2024 | Online Article tapinto.net

LAKE COMO, NJ — Love to run for a good cause? The opportunity is nearly here with the 2024 Cupid’s Chase, kicking off at Bar Anticipation on February 10. Registration is currently open, so you and someone you love can take part in this locally beloved 5K race.

The 5K is held across the country from New Jersey to Utah, and is supporting people who suffer from disabilities. The race in Lake Como is set to kick off at 10 a.m., with check in starting at 8:30 a.m. According to organizers, Packet pickup will be on February 9 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Road Runner Sports, 490 Broad Street in Shrewsbury.

Those who are looking to participate can pre-register now online, or in person on the day of the race. Pre-registration costs $45, and prices increase starting Feburary 9. Registration includes a special Under Armour Cupid’s Chase t-shirt, a Cupid’s Chase drawstring bag, and a finisher medal. The t-shirts are while supplies last, so register ASAP if interested. According to organizers, medals and gear can be shipped to participants who don’t receive them before or on race-day.
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The top three finishers will receive special trophies. Additionally, first place from each age group will receive an age group medal. The age groups are as follows: 12 and under, 13-15, 16-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-54, 55-59, 60-69, 70 and over.

Runners will start at Bar A on 16th Avenue before turning onto B Street. After two laps around the lake, they will head up Main Street to return to Bar A. To view the 5K’s course in detail, click here.

The race is set to benefit Community Options, a nationwide nonprofit that assists disabled people, both mentally and physically, find housing and employment opportunities.

“Community Options works with individuals with significant disabilities through residential services, day programs, social enterprises that employ individuals with disabilities, high school transition programs, and specialized programs for respite and medically fragile adults,” the 34-year-old organization’s website states. “As a national agency, Community Options seeks to promote the inclusion of people with disabilities in the community through person centered and natural supports, and collaboration with community partners to increase accessibility to services.”

With the race still a few weeks away, the organization already raised over $13,500 for the cause. There are more ways of helping Community Options with their goal other than running in the 5K.

Generous supporters can simply donate to the cause. Additionally, businesses and entrepreneurs can set up an exhibitor table for $500. Supporters can sponsor the race and runners as well. There are four tiers of sponsorships; Bronze for $1,500, Silver for $2,500, Gold for $5,000 and Platinum for $10,000. Each tier comes with cumulative perks regarding brand exposure on social media and exposure during the event itself. For more information on the sponsorship opportunities.

For more information on the race and Community Options, click here. Those participating should remember to dress warm, and feel free to bring their leashed, furry friend, because the race is pet-friendly.