The Great South Bay YMCA is marking the 25th anniversary of its annual 5K Run/Walk in Memory of Judi, which kicks off Saturday, May 31, at 8:30 a.m.
For children ages 3 to 11, there will be a free color run and activities in the Fun Zone, which opens at 8 a.m., preceding the 9:30 a.m. color run. The zone will feature arts and crafts, music, field games, basketball and a playground. Race participants can drop off their children at no charge before beginning their own activities.
In an interview with the South Shore Press, Great South Bay YMCA Executive Director Bob Pettersen spoke about the origin of the event and the woman who continues to inspire it.
“The race started 25 years ago and is in honor of Judi Shesh (this is our 25th anniversary race!),” Pettersen said. “Judi was a community leader, Y preschool teacher and mother of three young girls who sadly lost a long battle with breast cancer. She was an inspiration to so many, and each year we celebrate her legacy.”
Shesh died at age 41. Her wish was for her legacy to be about helping others. This year’s event is expected to draw at least 300 participants. According to Pettersen, proceeds help local families impacted by breast cancer.
“Proceeds for the race go to support local families who have been affected by breast cancer, as well as support the Y LiveStrong program and provide scholarships for students who have been involved in breast cancer initiatives,” Pettersen said. “Of course, the other benefit is that it is an event that benefits the health and well-being of participants who run and walk!”
As part of the day’s events, three individuals will be recognized for their inspirational contributions.
“We are also honoring three amazing people," he said. "Lisa Hoey (she has chaired our 5K volunteer committee for 22 years) as well as Jerry Leo (our 100-year old fitness star) and Methel Gale (who continues to inspire all of us in her battle with pancreatic cancer).”
In addition, sashes will be presented to breast cancer survivors.
In an interview with the South Shore Press, Hoey reflected on her friendship with Shesh and said her friend’s final thoughts were for her three daughters, with whom Hoey has remained close.
Hoey believes Shesh would appreciate how the event helps others.
“Fifty percent of the money raised goes to women battling breast cancer. It doesn’t go to a big corporate fund looking for a cure. That’s something Judi would have loved. that we're helping individual families in need at the time of the crisis,” said Hoey, adding that breast cancer has hit the West Islip area particularly hard.
She noted that a Bay Shore High School student proposed the idea for a run/walk 25 years ago, which initially drew about 200 participants. Hoey stepped in as chair to help organize the event, and as it grew, the YMCA became involved.
For those hesitant to participate, Hoey emphasized that running is optional.
“The biggest thing I get is, ‘I don’t think I can run it.’ I say, ‘Don’t run it, walk it.’ Everyone knows someone that’s been touched by breast cancer.”
This year’s event will take place rain or shine at the Great South Bay YMCA, 200 W. Main St. in Bay Shore. For details, visit the YMCA website. Additional questions can be directed to Bob.Pettersen@ymcali.org or 631-665-4255, ext. 6713.
Participants can pre-register online, on Friday in the YMCA lobby, or Saturday morning at the race site starting at 7 a.m.