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Fair Jimi Gubelli 5K Walk/Run
The eighth annual Jimi Gubelli 5k Walk/Run is set for June 25 at Masone Beach in Island Park.
Asked why the event continues Jimi Gubelli Foundation Co-Founder Felicia Nicholas said, “We do this because this is how Jimi was, the type of person who always gave back in everything he did, always involved in the community. We felt a need to give back in his honor. It’s a good way to relive his memory and celebrate him as the person he was and it’s an event for all his family and friends, who all loved him, he was such a social person.”
“Jimi was the type of person that would do anything for anybody,” said Tommy Gubelli of his late brother, Jimi, who died in 2008.
Only 47 years old, Jimi was well known in Island Park, the town where he was born and raised.
He owned T.A. Clarke’s, which used to be located on Austin Boulevard. While he owned the bar/restaurant, he would help nearly any organization that came in and asked him for help.
The foundation’s choice of a 5K as their event is a little ironic. “The one thing my brother hated to do was run,” said Tommy Gubelli, with a laugh. “So I found it funny that they would have a
5K run.” Jimi, who loved to do things outdoors, was more of a swimmer.
From the money raised the foundation gives out $2500 scholarships, aids needy families and kids. The foundation has also purchased Automated External Defibrillators for Masone Beach and the Sacred Heart Parish Center, plus the necessary training for the staff to be able to use them. Over the last seven years Nicholas said they have given out about 40 scholarships, over $80,000 in total. This year they hope to give out another $10,000.
The event kicks off with a pre-race party at Pop’s Seafood Shack and Grill at 15 Railroad Place in Island Park on June 23 from 7 to 9 p.m.
The morning of the Race the foundation awards the scholarships at Masone Beach, the after the race there is a Cornhole Tournament, and a big party with a D.J., prizes and raffles.
Donations are welcomed. Go to http://jimigubellifoundation.myevent.com/ for more information.
