Slip into your favorite Spiderman or Superman T-shirt – or full superhero gear – and head to Wayne Jamison Field for a first-time event.

 

The Jack Strong Foundation presents The Jack Rollins Superhero 5K and Kids Fun Run Saturday, in memory of Jack, who stole hearts, defined bravery and inspired all who followed his battle with neuroblastoma, a form of childhood cancer.

 

Jack soared on to his forever home in 2016, but his memory and spirit live on. The Jack Strong Foundation, run by Jack’s mom Brooke Rollins, raises funds for childhood cancer, financially supports families of children battling the disease and provides gifts of comfort to young cancer victims.

Saturday’s registration is at 7:30 a.m. with race starting at 8:30 a.m. Race-day registration is $23. Online registration, $20, is still open at www.jackstrong.org/events.

 

Rollins thinks there will be around 100 preregistered participants and combined with those registering on race day and kids in attendance, she’s estimating between 200 and 300. Besides the main event – the 5K which begins at the football field and winds through various residential neighborhoods  – there are some super festivities planned, including music, gift basket raffles, a 50-50 drawing, face painting and food trucks.

 

“We are having Wonder Woman, Iron Man, Captain America and, of course, Spiderman,” said Rollins about her little boy’s favorite superhero. “So far, it looks like people will really be getting into the whole superhero theme and I love it.”

 

Kids and adults are encouraged to wear superhero T-shirts and costumes. A $50 cash prize will be awarded to the best-dressed. A superhero obstacle course will be available for extra activity and fun.

 

Following the main race, a kids’ fun run will be held; participation just $5 per runner age 12 and under. Each of the first 100 kids will receive a special participation medal.

 

The first 100 adult runners will receive swag bags and T-shirt. Race categories are 12 and under; 13-17, 18-24, 25-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59 and 60 and over.

 

Rollins said she is overwhelmed with the community’s support and involvement.

 

“It’s all coming together and I’m really excited to launch the very first of hopefully many 5Ks to honor Jack,” she said. “I’m grateful for the outpouring of comments of others who are also excited to be attending, as well.”

 

Some say they look forward to walking and running the course and others can’t wait to meet the superheroes. Then, there are those coming for the social aspects and to enjoy the food trucks.

 

“But I think the comment I hear the most is from the more experienced runners wanting a chance to win one of the medals,” Rollins said. “They are pretty awesome - and every bit of what Jack would have wanted - so, they have a special meaning behind them, as well.”

 

She’s excited – and crossing her fingers – for a super successful event.

 

Read more HERE in a recent Toquinotes blog by Jeff Toquinto.