Sham Rock and a Hard Place 5K

🍀 Race Overview

Looking for a new venue in which to celebrate YOUR Irish heritage (even if you only have a sliver or a distant great, great grandparent) then look no further. Then again, perhaps you heard the rumors of the "running faithful", those that are out running and chatting through their weekends, and wanted to see what all the “hubbub” was about… you found them. Perhaps you went to Don Bosco Technical High School and know that several of our brethren came to Passaic County Technical Institute after DBT closed, and you are interested in a mini reunion!?!? Put them together and it’s time for a GREEN and GOLD celebration.

🏃‍♂️ Event Name

But first, why is the event called the "Sham Rock and a Hard Place 5K"?

🏞️ Circuit Details

I’ll tell you. Passaic County Technical Institute, PCTI is located at the top of Preakness Avenue in Wayne. If you know the area, there are varying degrees of elevation across the campus. It’s simply not flat. Not the worst inclines by any means, just "hard". So jogging and walking are quite acceptable options for this “hard place”.

🏫 Venue Highlights

The venue (facilities) on the other hand are quite impressive. The PCTI campus (closed to traffic which makes it super safe) is quite something to look at provided all its amenities. It’s something of a small college rather than a high school and there is a nice warm place to congregate (should it be chilly), just off outside the start/finish (its common) BEFORE and AFTER hitting the asphalt.

🍽️ Amenities and Refreshments

• Refreshments: Hot Bagels, Fruit, Hot Chocolate, Bottled Water (Sponsored by OrangeTheory - Wayne, NJ)
• Awards: Age Group Awards (no Overalls): 19&Under, 20-29,30-39,40-49,50-59,60-69,70-79,80-89,90+ .. 1st, 2nd and 3rd, M & F. We will look to further divide/align the 19&Under AG based on participation.
• Beneficiary: A portion of the proceeds will be split 50/50 between the PCTI / STEM Academy PTSOs.

📍 Event Location

The Sham Rock and a Hard Place 5K will take place on March 22, 2026, at 45 Reinhardt Road, Wayne, NJ. For more details, visit the official race page.