Sunday, November 15, 2026
The Rockville Centre Family 5K and 1-mile run will return on Nov. 14, bringing runners, families and community members together for a morning of fitness and friendly competition. The annual event offers two race options, giving experienced runners and younger participants alike an opportunity to take part. From the race schedule and course layout to the competitors who claimed top honors last year, here are three things to know before heading out to support or participate in this year’s event.
1. Two races offer options for all ages
The morning will begin with the 1-mile Fun Run at 8:30 a.m., followed by the 5K Run/Walk at 9:30 a.m. Both events will start and finish on Front Street near the Long Island Rail Road station, with separate routes through the village. The 1-mile event is untimed, making it an option for children, families and participants looking to enjoy the morning at their own pace. The first 100 children registered for the Fun Run will receive a T-shirt, while the first 300 5K registrants will also receive event shirts. The event, which will run rain or shine, is sponsored by the Rockville Centre Recreation Department and the Rockville Centre Chamber of Commerce. Participants can choose the distance that best suits their skills.
2. Two courses wind through streets
The 5K course starts and finishes on Front Street near the Long Island Rail Road station. Runners head east along Maple Avenue before turning north onto Brower Avenue and continuing through the northern section of the village, including Princeton Road and Hamilton Street. The route then winds back south through residential streets, connecting with Hempstead Avenue before returning toward the finish line. The 1-mile Fun Run follows a shorter route. Participants start on Front Street, run west and turn right onto North Centre Avenue, where they reach a turnaround point before heading south and turning left onto Front Street to finish. Both routes wind through the village.
3. Last year’s winners set the pace
Last year’s 5K produced a pair of impressive performances by Rockville Centre runners. James Albarella captured the men’s overall title, completing the course in 17 minutes, 57.13 seconds. Samantha Augeri led the women’s field, crossing the finish line in 19:30.34. Kevin Dunbar finished second among the men in 18:57.49, while Mary Kate Giordano placed second among the women in 19:55.19. Peter Bechhoff and Meghan Wilken rounded out the respective top three finishers. Their performances provide an early benchmark for this year’s competitors, who will have another opportunity to challenge the field and claim bragging rights. Runners from Long Island and beyond compete in this race.
