The Deal Sephardic Network’s 5K Race was bigger, better and had more impact than last year’s. Everyone, including the 400 runners, 50 volunteers and the policemen who were there to protect our community, felt the power and emotion of the race, which was run in memory of Ezra Cornman A’H, a boy from our community who passed away this summer.
The race started at Monmouth University’s Wilson Hall, where participants began gathering at 8 am, fired up and ready to go. After checking in, putting on our bibs, stretching a little, and listening to a powerful pep talk from DSN Executive Director Sammy Sitt, we assembled near the starting line.
I could feel the adrenaline coursing from the crowd and through my body, as I stood among the multitude of runners. It was when I looked to my right and saw the Cornman family that the excitement gave way to more complex emotions. They were standing right next to me in the crowd, getting ready to run as I was, and I felt as though they were saying, “Whether we are family, friends or community members who never met Ezra, we are all running together with matching shirts and matching hopes that our efforts will send love and bring Ezra closer to Hashem. The sublimity of that moment was unparalleled.
Although I was one of those who never met Ezra, I was privileged to sit with his family while I helped plan the 5K race. They showed me some of his writing, as well as his math summer homework packet, which had been finished in July, (and was completed perfectly). Through looking at photos of him, and listening to his family’s stories, I developed a connection with Ezra that gave an emotional purpose to the race. I couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate his life and remember his special qualities than by running as a community; interlacing those members from Brooklyn, Manhattan and Deal.
Another theme of the race was mitzvot. The Cornman family wished to communicate to the runners and spectators that they should perform mitzvot in memory of Ezra, to carry on his legacy. The children who participated, including Ezra’s friends from school, camp, and synagogue, received cards with different mitzvot written on them. Each child was asked to fulfill the mitzvah on his or her card and then bring the card to Igloo for free ices. The owner of Igloo posted the cards in the store, where they hang as a testimony to Ezra’s legacy. Additionally, teens and adults could sign up for an infant/child CPR class, which was held the following day at Congregation Magen David. There was a Berachot Station at the end of the race, with drinks, fruits, bagels and potato chips, Ezra’s favorite snacks.
As we ran, our desire to perpetuate Ezra’s legacy echoed through the streets of Oakhurst, and West Long Branch. When we ran by the Cornman house, there was a sign that said, “Smile and Wave,” which we all did. There were other signs propelling us forward, telling us we were “lookin’ good,” and what mile we had passed. Friendly high fives and loud cheers from fellow runners and spectators added to the fun and excitement.
Thanks to DSN Race Director Joe Benun, who worked tirelessly for months to organize and execute every phase of the race. One notable aspect of the professionalism was that all runners were tracked by timing chips linked through the laces of their sneakers. Of course, there was an abundance and water to keep us all hydrated, because safety is always DSN’s priority. There were medical attendants available in case of an emergency.
DSN is known for being an organization through which community members can come together to participate in great programs and events. The annual 5K race was the epitome of DSN’s mission to bring the community together and to teach our children the importance of health and athleticism.
As I crossed the finish line, I felt a tangible pride. Thank you to everyone who planned, participated and sponsored the run. And thank you to Ezra Cornman A”H for leaving a symbolic imprint on our lives.
______________________
Dyan Levy is a DSN volunteer and mother of three. She is a certified math teacher with a bachelor’s degree from t hUniversity of Maryland. She currently tutors many of our community youth.
