Eight members of Islip’s boys cross-country team braved pouring rain on Sunday, September 27, to participate in the Tunnel to Towers 5K Run & Walk in New York City, raising more than $2,000 for the Tunnel to Towers Foundation.

Joined by Coach Rosado and supported by Coach Wilson and several parents, the student-athletes traveled from Brooklyn to Manhattan in an event honoring those who lost their lives on September 11, 2001. This year’s participation held special meaning as the nation marked the 25th anniversary of the attacks.

“I felt it was important to do this on the 25th anniversary of 9/11,” said Coach Rosado. “These athletes of ours weren’t even born yet when all of this happened. The event’s motto is “Run, Walk, Remember.” We should never forget the events of that tragic day in our Nation’s history.  It was an awesome event, and it was very moving to see all the police and firefighters lined up to greet us as we emerged from the tunnel. There were literally thousands of them. They wanted to thank us for running, while we want to thank them for their continued service. Every New Yorker should either run/walk this or go in and support the event.”

Islip runners Dom, Ethan, Luke, Lucas, Teddy, Eddie, Steven, and Declan gathered at the Islip train station at 5:30 a.m. before heading into Brooklyn by van. Coach Rosado joined the athletes, while Coach Wilson handled transportation, dropping the group off in Brooklyn and picking them up in Manhattan. Several parents also made the trip to cheer them on.

Despite the lingering rain from a nor’easter, the Islip group joined thousands of participants in embracing the event’s motto: “Run, Walk, Remember.”

For the students, who were not yet born when the attacks occurred, the event offered a powerful opportunity to connect with that history and honor the service and sacrifice of first responders. One of the most moving moments came as the group emerged from the tunnel to find police officers and firefighters lined up to greet and thank participants.

The money raised supports the Tunnel to Towers Foundation’s programs benefiting first responders, catastrophically injured service members and their families.

The experience reflected a shared commitment from athletes, coaches, and families. With Coach Rosado and Coach Wilson helping make the trip possible, Islip’s runners demonstrated that teamwork and dedication extend well beyond the cross-country course.