Expertly organized by the MAY Student Government, the event got underway with past G.O. President Sham Shamilzadeh sounding the airhorn. The run began in exciting intensity, as MAY Talmidim, alumni, Rabbeim, teachers, fathers, grandfathers, brothers, coaches, and friends took off down the Far Rockaway Boardwalk.
The preparation for this incredible 5K started over the summer, when the incoming G.O. board members began to plan the year’s events. The competitions, tournaments, and events they to enhance the day-to-day MAY Mesivta experience, they envisioned were focused on providing pure, competitive fun, while trying to also raise funds for the yeshiva’s many programs and scholarship awards.
“This is a perfect example of a healthy, kosher outlet that our Yeshiva prides itself in providing,” commented Rabbi Yossi Bennett, Menahel. “Our Student Government did a phenomenal job organizing this event. A big yasher ko’ach!”
Student involvement in G.O. activities – from the incoming Freshman class to the Seniors – is always encouraged as one aspect of MAY’s goal to build and nurture well-rounded B’nei Torah. Under the guidance of MAY’s Director of Development, Rabbi Josh Zern, the G.O. built interest and anticipation for the MAY 5K with incentive programs, individual fundraising pages, and phenomenal giveaways to make this an event to remember. Each registered runner received an FM Home Loans MAY 5K Knapsack, which held additional MAY-branded swag, including a dri-fit shirt (to which the runners pinned their race bib with number and chip tracker), a portable charger, car magnets, a warm beanie, and a water bottle.
The run was a tremendous success, bringing in much-needed funds for tuition scholarships and student activities, while providing the opportunity to enjoy a meaningful afternoon of camaraderie and exercise. "It's incredible to see our students work so hard to help the Yeshiva provide scholarships for their peers,” noted Rabbi Zern. “It really reflects the Middos that MAY works to inculcate in its students."