2026 GR 5K Race Event Recap
On Sunday, May 17, our community gathered in Carmel, New York, for the inaugural Guardian Revival 5K Race, and it was truly a great day.
Military members, veterans, first responders, families, friends, volunteers, sponsors, and supporters came together for a morning filled with movement, encouragement, laughter, and connection.
For all our participants, whether you were out front, finished with one of the fastest times, hit a new personal record, enjoyed a walk on a beautiful day, or simply showed up in support, we hope you had a great time. Because while we love a good race against the clock (and accolades are great — especially when they’re hard earned), the most important thing is being able to show up, move, and connect with community.
This first-year event brought together runners, walkers, families, volunteers, sponsors, and community members in support of military members, veterans, and first responders.
Together, we raised over $27,000 to support Guardian Revival programs for guardians & families.
235 total registrants
183 registered in-person runners, with 166 out on race day
26 virtual participants
26 kids participated in the Fun Run
But more than the metrics, there were so many memorable moments throughout the morning…
“Our first 5K race was everything we hoped it would be and more. Seeing everyone come out in full force to support our guardians and their families — this is what it looks like when a community rallies together. We’re so grateful to everyone who was part of this day.”
The Carmel Fire Department helped set the scene by raising a massive American flag from a tower ladder above the finish area. We were thrilled to have so many families and friends along the course and at the start & finish as supporters. Dogs were a common sight throughout the morning (including a couple from our Boots & Paws program), adding even more positivity to the atmosphere.
Before the race began, participants stood together to say the Pledge of Allegiance and sing Happy Birthday to our oldest participant (Jack) together, and then the 5K officially began with the blast of a firetruck horn.
The youngest attendees and participants were some of the best — one of the highlights of the day was the Kids Fun Run and another was the line of kids before the 5K finish line, eager to high five runners as they approached the end of the race. Most runners slowed down, sacrificing a few seconds off their times to make sure they connected with every outstretched hand.
That gesture captures the spirit of the event, and ideally everything we do: reaching out a hand to each other, and taking the time to connect.
Awards & Trophies
We are proud of and impressed by everyone who showed up — for themselves and for each other, but we did encourage healthy competition, and we're excited to share who came out on top.
First, a big shoutout to the fastest finishers overall:
Simon Abella
Gerard Pagani
Erin Holly
Cheers to the top male and female finishers in each age group:
19 and Under: Josyln Walsh & Robby OToole
20–29: Sofia Southam & Michael Paino
30–39: Elena Galarza & Gerard Pagani
40–49: Erin Holly & Simon Abela
50–59: Jennifer Gordineer & Marcel Cekuta
60+: Maryellen Browning & Manoel Leal
Fastest Veteran: Tom Tockarshewsky
Fastest First Responder: Erin Holly
And then to our top teams:
Fastest Team (determined by the combined finish times of the top five runners from each team): Dutchess County Probation
Largest Department Team (fire, police, EMS, or military organization): Dutchess County Probation
Largest Community Team (business, gym, running club, or community group): Halpern Law
Great job everyone!
Want to keep moving with us?
Our annual One Mile Challenge is now open for registration!
OMC is a 30-day virtual event that raises funds & awareness to improve the lives of military, veterans, first responders, and their families.
Over the course of September (Suicide Awareness Month), you’ll walk, run, or roll a total of 30 total miles. Participate wherever you are and track your daily mile. When you join the One Mile Challenge, your registration directly supports Guardian Revival’s programs, and when you build your team, share with friends, and post about it on social media, you’re helping raise important awareness not only of what we do but also helping combat the stigma around mental health.
Make your miles matter:
Who We Are
Guardian Revival is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization that improves the mental health & well-being of military, veterans, and first responders — our guardians — and their families, at no cost to them.
Another Summit | Outdoor adventures — walking, hiking, backpacking, paddling, and fly fishing
Boots & Paws | Providing dogs for the therapeutic benefits of animal companionship
Encore | Opportunities to learn, write, play, record, and share music
Dwyer of Putnam County | Events, information, and resources for Putnam County veterans
Homefront | Events, support & resources for guardian families
RISE | Strength & resilience through fitness & wellness