Rockland GAA Memorial 5K

🏃‍♂️ Event Overview

• Event Name: 6th Annual Rockland GAA Memorial 5K
• Date: March 28, 2026
• Location: 160 Old Orangeburg Road, Orangeburg, NY
• More Info: Race Details

🕊️ In Memory

• Memorial Purpose: Held in memory of club members who have passed away.
• Special Remembrance: This year, we honor Brian Fennell and Padraig Gargan.
• Original Event: First event held in memory of long-time club member Noel O’Connell.
• Family and Friends: Join us in celebrating their lives on race day.

👕 T-Shirt Registration

• Deadline: Must register by March 15th for guaranteed T-Shirt.
• Note: No exceptions will be made.
• Size Availability: Extra shirts may be ordered but sizes cannot be guaranteed after the cut-off date.
• Fun Run Participants: T-Shirts only available if registered for the 5K.

🎉 Fun Run for Children

• Age Limit: Open to children 12 years old and younger.
• Event Cost: Free event, held after the 5K.
• T-Shirt Requirement: Registration required for T-Shirt.
• Inclusivity: All children are encouraged to participate!

🤝 Sponsorship Opportunities

• Available: Sponsorship opportunities for interested parties.
• Contact: Please reach out to the race director for more information.
• Link: Contact through this form.
• Support: Help us honor the memories while promoting your business.

🌟 About Brian Fennell

Born on December 2, 1977, in Mt. Vernon, New York, Brian Fennell brought warmth, laughter, and connection to everyone he met. He grew up in Pearl River, New York, later settling with his family in Westwood, New Jersey.

Brian was the beloved son of Tommy and Eileen Fennell, a devoted brother to Tara Borucinski (John), Thomas Fennell (Erin), and Brendan Fennell (Megan), and a proud uncle to six nephews and eight nieces, each of whom held a special place in his heart. He was a loving husband to Katrina and a devoted father to Caroline Cecilia and Reyer Patrick. His family was his world.

Brian built a successful career in construction management, beginning at age 18 and rising to Senior Project Manager on multi-million-dollar projects. An avid sports fan, he cheered faithfully for the New York Knicks and Jets and was also an accomplished NY All-State runner, longtime Rockland GAA footballer, and passionate coach.

Known for his quick wit, legendary prank calls, and easy conversation, Brian had a gift for making people feel seen and valued. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

As Brian often said, “Do not mourn me in my death, but celebrate my life.” So, on Saturday, March 28th, at the 6th Annual Rockland GAA Memorial 5K, let's do what Brian asked - let's celebrate his life.

🌈 About Padraig Gargan

Padraig Gargan was born on December 7, 1991, in Bronxville, New York, to Patrick “Francie” Gargan and Ann Margaret “Mags” Gargan. He was raised on Voss Avenue in Yonkers before moving to Pearl River in 2003.

A 2009 graduate of Pearl River High School, Padraig served as captain of the school’s inaugural Men’s Varsity Lacrosse Team. He went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the New York Institute of Technology.

Padraig was the owner of Slane Mechanical in New York and was known for his ambition, strong work ethic, and willingness to help others. An enthusiastic golfer, he proudly recorded a hole-in-one at West Point Golf Course. He was also deeply proud of his Irish heritage and was a player and member of the Rockland GAA.

He is lovingly remembered by his Nanna Peggy, his parents Francie and Ann Margaret, his brothers Darren and Mark, and his many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Padraig will be remembered for his bright smile, warm embrace, devotion to family, and unwavering loyalty to his friends. And as we run the Rockland GAA Memorial 5k, let’s keep those remembrances with us.