Hundreds of New Yorkers laced up their sneakers and hit the pavement for the third annual Jamaica Q 5k Walk/ Run on Saturday, Sept. 28. Despite rainy weather, locals of all ages and backgrounds gathered at the York College Performing Arts Center for the early morning race. The USATF-certified 5k was hosted by the Greater Jamaica Development Corporation (GJDC) and sponsored by the YMCA of Greater New York Jamaica, Resorts World Casino, Ponce Bank and other local stakeholders.
Live music had participants pumped as they warmed up with Donna James, 71, a volunteer trainer at Saturday’s event. James, who works for the YMCA, said she jumped at the opportunity when asked to run the warm-up. “This is my passion, this is what I do and this is what I love. I came out here to pump them up and get them ready. If you got it in your heart that this is what you’re going to do, you’re going to go out there and finish strong,” James said.
Patricia Robinson, Chief Administrative Officer of the GJDC, said the annual race emphasizes a commitment to health and wellness. “The energy is high, and we’re excited. The significant part about this is we have the opportunity to run past several different landmarks, including Bellitte Bikes, Jamaica Performing Arts Center, VP Records and more,” Robinson said.
Robinson also shared the history of the race, which started in 2022 to celebrate the 55th anniversary of the corporation. “On that first year, we partnered with Council Member Nantasha Williams, who made sure we continued this effort, and we did a post-community event,” she said. “It has really become a signature event that is expected in Queens, and people are really competitive. We have over 515 registrants today.”
During the pre-race warmup, a handful of runners spoke to QNS about their personal motivations for completing the 5k.
“I wanted to write this off my bucket list; it’s my first 5k, I’ve never done it before, and it’s something I wanted to experience myself,” said Shanika Small.
Patricia Clifford, 69, said she started jogging and long-distance walking for her heath during the COVID-19 pandemic. “COVID motivated me to get back into jogging,” she said. “I found out about this event a couple of weeks ago and decided to try it. “When I jog, I normally do three miles, so I said think I can do that.”
Khari White, 42, said he was inspired to participate in the 5k to show his love for Southeast Queens. “I love my community. It’s also about health and awareness in keeping fit and staying in shape, not just to work out because it is a race, but to make it a part of a lifestyle on an everyday basis,” he said.
White, the third vice chairperson of Community Board 12, told QNS he had a specific time in mind for completing the race. “I’m looking to complete this between 23 or 24 minutes. You’d be surprised what the body can do with just training. I’d tell anyone that wants to run, or do any sport in particular, train train train, and trust in your ability,” he said.
Following the pre-race warmup, Dr. Claudia Schrader, president of York College, Council Member Nantasha Williams and 5k grand marshal, Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi, wished the runners and walkers good luck.
“This is where strength happens, this is where health happens, this is where communities unite, businesses thrive and neighborhoods grow. Each one of us individually has our own adventure on a run,” Joshi said. “I just can’t tell you enough about what running does for me personally and for what I’ve seen it do for many people in my life. It brings people together who may have nothing in common outside of the run; they take steps together, form bonds and become lifelong friends.”
After brief remarks from the community stakeholders, the runners and walkers lined up at the starting line in front of the York College Performing Arts Center and eagerly began their trek throughout downtown Jamaica. Many racers were in positive spirits as onlookers waved and cheered as they passed downtown landmarks.
Many participants reflected on the highs of the race after crossing the finish line.
“Every day you wake up, every day you take a step, and you complete a goal. I basically run for a living and run for my life, so I completed my goal, said Derek Smith, 51.
Chris Hall, 37, ran with his group Empire Security and Protection. He said his friend, who owns the security business, motivated him to run the 5k. “I haven’t run in a while, but sometimes you need motivation. I feel happy about my time,” Hall said. “I had a good time and met some good people here as well.”
Participants enjoyed a post-race health fair and celebration to signify their achievements. Additionally, Julia Tapia and Nicolas Morales were the top female and male winners of Saturday’s 5k race, respectively.
