More than 500 runners are expected to turn out for the third annual St. James/Head of the Harbor Certified 5 Mile Challenge and 5K Fun Run on Saturday, May 9, 2026, to benefit Ronald McDonald House Long Island and its campaign to build a new Ronald McDonald House at Stony Brook Children’s Hospital.
The St. James Challenge is a community-centered event designed for participants of all ages and fitness levels. 100% of the proceeds from the race and fun run will directly support the construction of the house and advance Ronald McDonald House’s mission to keep families close when they need it most, providing a welcoming home to stay for families with children receiving critical medical care.
“This event is about more than just crossing a finish line,” said capital campaign Chair and Race Organizer Cynthia Wong Lippe. “It’s about coming together as a community to support families facing some of the most challenging moments of their lives and helping make a new Ronald McDonald House at Stony Brook a reality.”
Participants can choose between the timed 5-mile race and the 5K Fun Run/Walk up the beloved Cordwood Path, making the event accessible to competitive runners, casual walkers, children, and families alike. The morning will also feature a Vendor Village and Community Celebration on the farm grounds. Attendees can visit with local vendors, participate in kids’ activities including Mother’s Day crafts and games, sample refreshments, meet representatives from Country radio station 103.1 FM The Wolf, bid on raffle baskets from local retailers, and watch the awards ceremony. Wolfie the Seawolf from Stony Brook University and Jimbo Jaws from the Long Island Aquarium will be on hand for photos as they join the Jazz Loft band members to lead runners to the start line.
With 395 Ronald McDonald Houses currently serving families across the globe, each rooted in the strength of its local community, the Stony Brook Ronald McDonald House is poised to offer families critical care. This moment underscores the collective compassion, generosity, and commitment that power the Ronald McDonald House mission. For all those involved, reaching this landmark is a powerful reminder of what communities can achieve when they unite to keep families close during their most critical moments.
- Location: 2 Taylor Lane, St James, NY 11780
- Time:
- 7:30 – 8:15 am: packet pickup
- 8:30 am: pre-race announcements
- 8:50 am: parade march to Start Line
- 9 am: Race Start
- Registration: St. James 5 Mile Challenge and 5K Fun Run/Walk
- Parking: Across the street from Deepwells Farm
For more information or to register, visit https://runsignup.com/race/ny/saintjames5milerun
About Ronald McDonald House Charities
Ronald McDonald House Charities New York Metro provides comfort and support to families of children undergoing medical treatment. Follow Ronald McDonald House Charities New York Metro on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, and TikTok.
PHOTO of the 2025 event courtesy of Ronald McDonald House Long Island.
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