Fanwood 5k Pizza and Family Fun Run Draws Over 1,000 Participants

Fanwood residents turned out in large numbers on Sunday, Oct. 18, for the Fanwood 5k Pizza and Family Fun Run. Union County Life reports that the event started and finished at Borough Hall on North Martine Avenue, under cool weather that was ideal for running. More than 1,000 people took part.

The 1 mile Family Fun Run began at 11 a.m., followed by the 5k at 11:30 a.m. A total of 528 participants took part in the Fun Run, and 517 runners ran the 5k. Registration was up 26 percent over 2025.

Eric Murphy, 38, of Scotch Plains was the overall winner of the 5k. Mika Synder, 14, of Fanwood was the overall winner for the women.

The 5K Planning Committee was led by Race Director Neil Pierce. Members included Venessa White, Michael Lowenthal, Eryn Sinclair, Ryan Raskin, Arlene Ross and Ericka Rodriguez. All members of the Recreation Commission helped Recreation Director Bob Budiansky run the event.

Fanwood Mayor Colleen Mahr and Borough Council members Anthony Carter, Patricia Walsh and Gina Berry attended. Police Capt. Dan Kranz gave instructions to the field marshals for both races. A DJ played music throughout the morning.

Sponsors included Fabio’s Bistro, Nick’s Pizza, Edison Heating & Cooling, Closet Factory, T&M, Shovlin Mattress Factory, Klinique Kids, Unity Bank, Fanwood Animal Hospital, Fanwood Pharmacy, The Fanwood-Scotch Plains YMCA and Tom The Green Grocer, among others.

Find more Fanwood events, businesses, and local news on Union County Life.

FAQ

How many people ran the Fanwood 5k and Family Fun Run?
More than 1,000 people took part. 517 runners ran the 5k, and 528 participants took part in the Family Fun Run.

Who won the Fanwood 5k?
Eric Murphy, 38, of Scotch Plains was the overall winner. Mika Synder, 14, of Fanwood was the overall winner for the women.

What time did the Fanwood 5k start?
The Family Fun Run started at 11 a.m., and the 5k started at 11:30 a.m. Both began and ended at Borough Hall.