The first May Day 5K Run and Walk will set off from Main Beach on Sunday at 9 a.m., rain or shine, and the good news for participants and spectators alike is that the weather is expected to be perfect for the occasion.
Two East Hampton High School sophomores, Dylan Cashin and Ryleigh O’Donnell, standout competitors in cross-country and track, were the catalysts for the May Day Race, which is sponsored by the Old Montauk Athletic Club and East Hampton Village. Proceeds will go to the Family Service League of Long Island in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month.
“Dylan and Ryleigh came to me a few months ago, saying they wanted to hold a race to benefit the Family Service League, whose mental health professionals work with our school districts,” Jennifer Fowkes of OMAC said earlier this Spring. The girls said that their own struggles with anxiety, and their belief that those who seek help in solving mental health problems shouldn't feel shamed prompted inspired them to raise the idea for a race to benefit the Family Service League.
Registration for the May Day Race costs $30 and can be done online by clicking here. Race registration packets will be available at the beach starting at 8 a.m. The course goes up Ocean Avenue from Main Beach and on to Lily Pond Lane, Aquebogue Road, Cottage Avenue, Lee Avenue, and back to Main beach on Ocean Avenue.