Hillsborough YMCA Hosts Annual HOP 5K Walk & Run, Celebrating Community and Wellness
Hillsborough, NJ, June 10, 2025 — Hillsborough YMCA, a branch of Greater Somerset County YMCA, proudly hosted its annual Hillsborough HOP 5K Walk & Run on Saturday, June 7, 2025. The event brought together runners, walkers, families, and supporters for a morning of community and fitness.
Participants followed a scenic course that began at Hillsborough YMCA, wound through local neighborhoods, and concluded at the Hillsborough Municipal Building celebrating not just movement, but connection.
The HOP 5K Walk & Run reflects the Y’s mission to promote healthy living and community engagement for individuals of all ages and abilities. Proceeds from the event, along with generous support from sponsors, help provide financial assistance so that everyone in the community can access the Y’s programs and services.
In the men’s division, Maxwell Chan claimed first place with an impressive time of 16:48, followed by Raymond Sarlo at 17:30, and Matthew Skikus at 17:41. In the women’s division, Megan Pearson led the pack with a time of 19:21, with Kinsey Bruno close behind at 21:08 and Courtney Skikus at 21:19.
The coveted Hoppy Award is returning to Auten Road Intermediate School, which brought out 82 participants earning them top honors once again! Hillsborough Elementary and Triangle School followed with 40 and 34 participants, respectively. The Y extends shoutouts to all participating school teams and to the Phillipsburg Let Me Run athletes who gave it their all on the course.
A standing ovation went to Melva Murray, who completed the 5K at an incredible 92 years young, a true testament to the spirit of health and perseverance the YMCA celebrates every day.
“Events like the HOP 5K showcase Hillsborough YMCA’s commitment to fostering community bonds, promoting physical activity for individuals of all ages and abilities, and nurturing a lifelong passion for fitness,” said Madhur Patel, Branch Executive Director at Hillsborough YMCA. “At the Y, individuals discover opportunities and resources to unlock their potential, uncover their purpose, and connect with a supportive community.”
For official race results, photos, and more, visit: https://runsignup.com/Race/NJ/Hillsborough/YMCAHillsboroughHop.
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About Greater Somerset County YMCA
Greater Somerset County YMCA is a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening the community by connecting all people to their potential, purpose, and each other. The Y empowers everyone—no matter who they are or where they’re from—by ensuring access to resources, relationships, and opportunities for all to learn, grow, and thrive. For more information about Greater Somerset County YMCA and financial assistance, visit us at www.gscymca.org.