Julia's Run for Children

Event Overview

• Location: Edgewood Park, just off Whalley Ave in the Westville section of New Haven.
• History: Designed in 1910 by Frederick Law Olmsted JR., known for designing Central Park.
• Course: The 5K & one mile courses stay within the park on its primary driveway/roads.
• Scenic Views: You'll travel by West River and the ponds within its borders. It’s safe, quiet, scenic, and NO Cars!

Course Information

• Map: The 5k / 1 mile map link- Course Map.
• Route: The course is an OUT & BACK route starting near the pavilion in the park.
• Turnaround Points: Both the 5k & mile turn around at the half mile mark, with the last 5K turnaround at the far end of the park driveway.
• Distance: Participants will cover a distance of 3.11 miles for the 5K and 1 mile for the walk.

Mission Statement

• Purpose: Celebrating the life of Julia Rusinek and honoring her dedication to improving the lives of children in need.
• Support: The Julia Rusinek Memorial Fund supports children through leadership programming, literature, writing, and athletics.
• Beneficiary: Proceeds from the event benefit LEAP (Leadership, Education & Athletics in Partnership, Inc.).
• Fund Goals: Ensure Julia’s commitment to children continues through direct interactions and educational support.

Registration & Donations

• Registration: Online only- even on race day! No paper entries or cash accepted.
• Participation: Choose between computer-timed 5K, untimed walk, or one-mile fun run.
• Donation Info: Visit Julia's Run for more information on donations.
• Pricing: Family-friendly pricing available, with varying fees based on registration date.

Schedule

• April 16: Cut off for guaranteed t-shirt sizing.
• April 26: Event day at Edgewood Park, starting with bib pickup at 8:30 AM.
• Kiddie Fun Run: Starts at 9:40 AM, non-timed.
• Main Events: All 5k events and one mile walk start at 10:00 AM.

Awards

• Eligibility: Only timed 5K participants eligible for awards.
• Trophies: Awarded for 1st place in various categories.
• Prizes: WRC gift cards awarded to first place finishers and age group champions.
• Post Race: Ready-to-go food, snacks, and water available.

Parking Information

• Availability: There are public parking lots within the park as well as street parking.
• Recommendation: Arrive early to secure parking, especially on weekends.
• Alternative Parking: Use GPS directions to ‘Manjares’ for parking ease.
• Local Tips: Explore nearby eateries like Bellas Cafe and the Cat Cafe.

Sponsorship Opportunities

• Support: Consider becoming a sponsor or partner, contributing to our charity effort.
• Contact: Reach out to Roza Rusinek at juliarun@gmail.com for partnership inquiries.
• Thank You: Appreciation extended to all sponsors for their support of LEAP.

Race Director

• Experience: Marty Schaivone has 35 years of experience managing running events.
• Impact: Events have raised over $250,000 for local charities.
• Contact: For further event details, email msrunningproductions@yahoo.com.

Event Details

• Date: April 26, 2026
• Website: For more information, visit Julia's Run for Children.