Bay Ridge marked the unofficial start of fall on Sunday as thousands gathered for the annual Police Officer Christopher Hoban Memorial Run at Xaverian High School. The 5K event — with a five-mile option for the more ambitious — honors the late Xaverian alum and Bay Ridge native who was killed in the line of duty in 1988, and supports a scholarship fund established in his name.
On the night of Oct. 18, 1988, Hoban, who was serving in the Manhattan North Narcotics unit, entered an apartment building in Manhattan Valley’s W. 105th Street during an undercover operation. The suspects believed Hoban and his partner could be police officers, and a shootout ensued, killing the 1980 graduate.
Since 1989, the run has served as a tribute to Hoban’s life and service.
“Today is one of the very best days of the year here in Bay Ridge and at Xaverian, when our community comes together in faith, friendship and remembrance,” said Rob Oliva, a Xaverian alumnus, vice president at Saint Francis College and chair of the Hoban Run Committee.
“Chris stood for courage, service and love of neighbor — values that still inspire us nearly four decades later,” Oliva said. “His memory is alive in every step taken today, in every volunteer that serves, and in every person here who believes in the power of community.”
Held each year on the third Sunday of September — dubbed “Hoban Sunday” — the run has become a cherished community tradition. Runners, volunteers and spectators join each year on the steps of the school to kick off the race before enjoying post-event festivities like barbecue and raffles in the parking lot.
This year, more than 1,000 runners participated.
A number of local officials were also in attendance, including Council Member Justin Brannan (class of 1996), State Sen. Andrew Gounardes, Lori Windsor on behalf of Rep. Nicole Malliotakis, Chair of the NYS Conservative Party Jerry Kassar (class of 1997) and Chair of the Kings County Conservative Party Fran Vella Marrone, as well as former State Sen. Marty Golden, whom Oliva called a “dear friend of the Hoban family,” and mayoral candidate Curtis Sliwa.
Prior to the race, Assistant Chief Frank Giordano, commanding officer of NYPD Patrol Borough Brooklyn South, received the Police Officer Christopher Hoban Service to New York Award in recognition of his contributions.
