Weekend Race Report- May 16–17

5 hours ago
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Rock Race Timing wrapped up a packed and meaningful weekend, timing three races across two days throughout New Jersey. Each event brought its own mission, community, and standout performances. Here’s the full recap in chronological order.

SATURDAY, MAY 16

Move for Ji: Stroke Awareness 5K – Ridgefield Park, NJ

A heartfelt 5K honoring the Ji family’s father on what would have been his 62nd birthday. The race raises awareness for stroke survivors and supports Dellridge Health & Rehabilitation Center, with strong involvement from KABLE (Korean American Brothers & Sisters in Law Enforcement). A warm, community‑driven event where participants were encouraged to walk, run, push, or cheer in honor of stroke fighters and survivors. Family energy and law‑enforcement support made this a powerful start to the weekend.

Top Finishers

Male Overall

Anonymous Participant – 18:06
Joseph Lockhart (Tenafly, NJ) – 19:34
Jason Cho (Ridgefield, NJ) – 21:03

Female Overall

Deborah Siracuse (Leonia, NJ) – 25:03
Michelle Buttafuoco (Hackensack, NJ) – 28:02
Yoonji Lee (Rochelle Park, NJ) – 28:32

The first overall finisher at the Move for Ji 5k, timed by affordable race timing company, Rock Race Timing — The first overall finisher at the Move For Ji 5k

SUNDAY, MAY 17

Demarest 5K – Demarest, NJ

Event Focus: A Northern Valley staple, the Demarest 5K blends competitive runners with a massive youth turnout thanks to the Principal’s Challenge, a school‑based training program. The event is known for its family‑friendly atmosphere and strong community pride. WIth over 700 registrants across events, this was one of the largest iterations of the Demarest 5k!

Top Finishers (Overall)

Male Overall

Erez Ben Shaoul (Haworth, NJ) – 18:57
Dayne Mosconi (Demarest, NJ) – 19:13
Christopher Marki (Harrington Park, NJ) – 19:39

Female Overall

Honey Sonn (Demarest, NJ) – 21:04
Leslie Goldstein (Demarest, NJ) – 21:22
Kara VanDooijeweert (Parsippany, NJ) – 21:24

NJT Namma 5K Run/Walk – Clark, NJ

Event Focus: Hosted at Oak Ridge Park, this event supports NAMI New Jersey (youth mental health) and child education programs in India. The race includes a 5K run/walk and a 1‑mile fun walk, with medals for all finishers and shirts for the first 200 registrants.

Top Finishers (Overall)

Male Overall

Colin Johnson (Denver, CO) – 19:07
Edwin Cholula (Bound Brook, NJ) – 19:12
R. Fortus (Colonia, NJ, age 12) – 19:45

Female Overall

Olga Sosa (Short Hills, NJ) – 20:37
Terri Capellupo (Piscataway, NJ) – 22:48
Dasha Nabokova (Edison, NJ, age 16) – 23:23

Additional Highlights

Youth talent: A 12‑year‑old finished third overall in the men’s race.
Masters strength: Women’s winner Olga Sosa (49) placed 8th overall.
Community turnout: Strong participation from Edison, Colonia, Bound Brook, and surrounding towns.

Race Notes: A purpose‑driven event with a wide range of participants — from competitive runners to families walking together for mental‑health awareness. The scenic Oak Ridge Park course and community‑focused mission made this a meaningful capstone to the weekend.