This year’s North Boroughs 5K made history. With 230 registered runners, the race set a new record in its 18th year — the biggest turnout since the event began. Runners of all ages and paces came out to pound the pavement through Bellevue and Avalon, and the energy on race day reflected just how much this event has grown into a true regional tradition. Between registrations and sponsorships, the race raised $8,300 in registration fees and over $2,000 in sponsorships, fueling both the race itself and the causes it supports.
That fundraising translated directly into impact for two organizations close to this community’s heart. Northgate School District’s cross country program received over $5,000 to support its athletes, helping cover equipment, travel, and program costs for the season ahead. At the same time, Bellevue Forward also received over $5,000, funding that goes straight back into the community programming, small business support, and neighborhood revitalization work the race has helped sustain for years. It’s a powerful example of what a single morning of running can do when a whole region rallies behind it.
None of this happens without serious behind-the-scenes coordination, and this year was no exception. Bellevue and Avalon borough staff, police, and fire departments worked seamlessly together to keep runners safe, streets clear, and the course running smoothly from start to finish — a level of cross-municipality teamwork that organizers say made this the smoothest race yet. Leah Marmo-Rainey, event coordinator, Bellevue Forward board member, and owner of .HOME. granola company (an event sponsor) said “It was incredible to see so many community members, of all ages, come together to support each other on race day. These types of endurance events are no easy feat, so seeing so many people challenge themselves and support each other along the way is truly inspiring to witness and be a part of. We’re thrilled to be a sponsor and look forward to the years of running ahead!”
“I’ve run many races and just enjoy being part of a run in the community where I work and staying active. It was a great race.”
– Michelle Lewis, first place winner in the female 50-59 age group.
“My daughter is a newer runner, and this did really encourage her so thank you!” -Rebecca Bechtold, mother of Avery Bechtold, third place winner of the female 11-13 age group.
“That was a wonderful event! I ran it 15 years ago, pushing my son in a stroller when he was a baby, and he is 15 now and ran it today along with his younger sisters.” – Jessica Navarro
Jessica Navarro and her family who all participated in the 5K
At the front of the pack, two of this year’s male and female winners each took home something no past champion has: a custom-designed “Burnie” trophy, 3D-printed exclusively for the North Boroughs 5K. The trophy was designed by RJ Thompson and brought to life by Archer Frog.
Here’s to 18 years of the North Boroughs 5K and to many more to come.