Usually, they are engaged in a race against time, with lives possibly hanging in the balance.
Now, volunteers with BRAVO, the Bay Ridge Ambulance Volunteer Organization, are engaged in a different sort of race, but one that is no less crucial.
In an effort to raise money for the service, which provides free emergency care to those in need, BRAVO has inaugurated its “Keep BRAVO Running 5K” race, which will take place on May 31, beginning at 10 a.m. on the Shore Road recreational path, beginning and ending at 101st Street.
Michelle Harrison, a volunteer with BRAVO since 2004, told members of Community Board 10, gathered at the Knights of Columbus, 86th Street and 13th Avenue, for their April meeting, about the upcoming event.
“BRAVO is celebrating its 35th anniversary this year,” noted Harrison. “We’ve been helping your family, helping your neighbors, helping your friends, since 1974. In these tough economic times, we need your help to keep us running.”
Harrison said in a subsequent interview that the goal was “to raise as much money as possible,” because, she noted, BRAVO charges nothing for its services, which are available within the Bay Ridge, Dyker Heights and Fort Hamilton areas.
Awards will be given to the top three male and female runners in a ceremony following the race that will be held in John Paul Jones Park, Fourth Avenue and 101st Street. Refreshments will be served.
Participation in the race costs $15 per person for entries postmarked by May 15th, and $20 per person after that date. The first 100 entrants will receive water bottles. Sponsorships are available from $100 to $750.
Participation forms can be found at www.bravoambulance.org. For further information on sponsorship opportunities, call 347−234−1134.
Entry forms should be mailed to BRAVO 5K, 6801 Shore Road, #1G, Brooklyn, NY 11220.
