by Davy James, Staff Writer
Residents will be pushing their muscles to the limit to help raise money for students on Nov. 2, as the Viking Athletic Club will be hosting its fourth annual 5K and one-mile Fun Run at South Brunswick High School.
”It’s a great opportunity to get exercise and raise money for a good cause,” said Bob Tona, race director. “Money goes to student athletes, the marching band, and goes into scholarships for deserved athletes and students.”
Last year the race raised $8,500 and Mr. Tona said he hopes to raise $10,000 this year. The race is becoming a signature event in South Brunswick thanks to the numerous sponsors who help make the race what it is, according to Mr. Tona.
”There’s a lot of 5K races in New Jersey,” said Mr. Tona, who has three children who attend the school. “What sets this apart is that we have a DJ, food and lots of support from all our sponsors throughout the community.”
Mr. Tona said the event will continue to grow because of the focus on fitness and offering participants a unique experience.
”I don’t come at this from a fund-raising standpoint because I look at the health and fitness side,” Mr. Tona said. “If you put on a good event for the runners then that will bring the money in. That will also bring more sponsors in when they hear people saying they had a great time.”
More than 125 awards will be given for multiple age groups, which include the Kiddie Dash.
”We have a kids’ race to encourage young kids to run,” Mr. Tona said. “My vision has kids progressing from the Kiddie Dash up to the one-mile race and finally up to the 5K. I hope kids get into a lifestyle of healthy activity.”
All participants will receive a free T-shirt. Registration will begin at SBHS on Ridge Road at 7:30 a.m. The one-mile Fun Run begins at 9:30 a.m.; the 5K starts at 10 a.m.; and the Kiddie Dash starts at 11 a.m.
Entry for the 5K is $20 if postmarked before Oct. 25 and $25 on the day of the race. The one-mile Fun Run costs $15 for adults and $12 for children under 10, and the Kiddie Dash is $10. Entries should be mailed to Viking Athletic Club, c/o Run with the Vikings 5K, 8 Zev Court, Monmouth Junction, N.J. 08852.
The event still needs runners, sponsors and volunteers. For more information on volunteering and signing up, call Mr. Tona at 732-940-3111.

