The D.C Raymond M. Downey 'Forever Running' Memorial 5K Run/Walk

The D.C. Raymond M Downey "Forever Running" Memorial 5K Run/Walk

New Course and Location

The Downey family is looking forward to gathering once again for the 25th Anniversary of the D.C. Raymond M. Downey “Forever Running” Memorial 5K Run/Walk, and we warmly invite you to join us in continuing this meaningful tradition.

This event is our way of honoring the memory of our dad, Chief Raymond M. Downey, as well as all those who lost their lives on September 11, 2001, and those who have since passed from 9/11-related illnesses. Each year, your presence helps keep their legacy alive in a powerful and heartfelt way.

We are deeply grateful for the incredible support and love shown by the Deer Park community and the running community over the past 25 years. Your participation, encouragement, and commitment have made this event not only possible, but truly special.

For those who are unable to attend in person, we are once again offering a Virtual 5K Run so you can still be part of the day, no matter where you are.

Thank you to our family, friends, volunteers, and all who have taken part over the years. Your continued support means more to us than we can ever fully express.

We hope to see you at the starting line.

Date

• Live Run: Sunday June 21st
• Virtual Run: Sunday June 21th to Sunday June 28th

Times

• 9:30 AM: Live 5K run
• Run Anytime: Anywhere for Virtual Run

Application Fees

• Before April 15th: $25 for Ray Downey "Forever Running" Online Live Race fee
• After April 15th: $30 for Ray Downey "Forever Running" Online Live Race Fee
• Virtual Race fee: $30 for Ray Downey
• Day of Race Fees: $40 for Ray Downey "Forever Running" Online Live Race fee

Course

5k (3.1 miles): Fast & flat run through Deer Park. Passes down D.C. Raymond M. Downey Memorial Rd. USATF certified and sanctioned.

Awards

• First Place: Plaques presented to the winners (male & female)
• Top 3: Males & females in various age groups
• Categories: Includes 10 & under, 11-14, 15-19, and others up to 90-94, 95-100
• Special Categories: Top Wheelchair and all Special Olympians

Ray Downey Special Awards

• Top Cancer Survivor: (Female & Male)
• Top Deer Park Teacher: (Female & Male)
• Harry Ford: Top FDNY SOC Fire Fighter
• Best Combined Time: Various categories including father & son, father & daughter

Kids Fun Run

No Fee: Registration from 8:00-9:00 a.m. on race day.

Scholarship Charity Fund

Affectionately referred to as "The Master of Disaster" and "God," Deputy Chief Raymond M. Downey, Commanding Officer of the Special Operations Command (SOC), died in the line of duty, while helping others escape from the fire and collapse scene of the twin towers at the World Trade Center on Tuesday, September 11, 2001. The fire service was a major force in his life, as evidenced by his sterling career. He truly was a legend in his own time.

As a tribute to Chief Downey's legacy, his family has established the D.C. Raymond Downey Scholarship Charity Fund to keep his memory alive and to benefit the many organizations that Chief Downey cherished.

Race Information

For more information, please visit the official race page.