Hillsborough YMCA, a branch of Greater Somerset County YMCA, hosted its annual Hillsborough HOP 5K Walk & Run on Saturday, June 1.
The event brought the community together for a spirited and inclusive gathering, featuring both competitive runners and enthusiastic walkers. Participants embarked on a scenic route starting at Hillsborough YMCA, winding through neighborhoods, before concluding at the Hillsborough Municipal Building.
The HOP 5K Walk & Run promotes an active, connected, and engaged lifestyle within our community. With the generous support of HOP 5K sponsors and event proceeds, the Y continues to uphold its mission of providing financial assistance to ensure that essential programs and services remain accessible to all.
In this year’s race, Eric Scully set a new course record with a time of 15:32. Following him were Matthew Skikus, who finished in 17:30, and Brian Crowley, who completed the race in 17:50. Among the female participants, Courtney Skikus led with a time of 20:32, followed by Rachel Ellis at 21:06 and Megan Person at 21:15.
The Hoppy Award for 2024 went to Auten Road Intermediate School, which had 64 participants. Triangle School and Sunnymead followed with 43 and 26 participants, respectively. In the team categories, Rachel and Kenneth Ellis, a dad and daughter duo, finished in 42:12. Gunjan and Yuvaan Bhargava, a dad and son team, completed the race in 48:48. Kathryn and Brooklyn Kutepow, a mother and daughter team, finished in 51:29. Maxwell and Nicoll Young, a mother and son team, completed the race in 1:04:49.
Race – school teams and Let Me Run – participants included all ages. The oldest participant was 91 year old Melva Murray.
“Events like the Hop 5K embody Hillsborough YMCA’s commitment to fostering community bonds, promoting physical activity for individuals of all ages and abilities, and nurturing a lifelong passion for fitness,” said Scott Weber, associate branch executive director at Hillsborough YMCA.
“At the Y, individuals discover a wealth of opportunities and resources to unlock their potential, uncover their purpose, and connect with a supportive community united in pursuit of health and wellness goals.”
For more race information, photos, and results visit https://runsignup.com/Race/NJ/Hillsborough/YMCAHillsboroughHop.
