PHOTOS: 29th annual Hoban Run pays tribute to late Bay Ridge hero

It was another day of remembrance, athletics and commemoration in Bay Ridge.

Xaverian High School, 7100 Shore Road, was once again host to the Police Officer Christopher Hoban Memorial Run on Sunday, September 17.

Now in its 29th year, the tradition honors Christopher Hoban — a Xaverian graduate of the Class of 1980 who died in the line of the duty in 1988 at just 26 — with a pair of five-mile and 5K runs, followed by a barbecue, live performances, raffles and more.

The five-mile run follows the Harbor Promenade to the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge and returns along Third Avenue while the 5k route starts at Xaverian High School, goes down and back along the Harbor Promenade and returns to Hoban’s alma matter.

Family, friends, local dignitaries, members of Xaverian High School and others all showed up to show their continued support.

Prior to the run and activities, Xaverian President Robert Alesi discussed the significance of the day. “It is such an honor for me to be here each and every year as we remember one of our Xaverian brothers who gave his life,” he said. “Your support and attendance here today not only allows us to remember Chris but also all of those police officers who have given their lives in the line of duty.”

He also touched on what it means to the school. “Each year, we make sure that we talk to our students about what Xaverian is about; that it is a Catholic school that really has a focus on giving back in service to others,” he explained. “There is no greater example of that than the service and sacrifice made each and everyday by the men and women of the New York City Police Department. We remember one of our brothers, Chris Hoban, who gave the ultimate sacrifice defending this city.”

“Twenty-nine years later and the turnout is as strong as ever,” said State Senator Marty Golden. “That goes to the credit of Xaverian High School, the NYPD and all of you that never forget the price the Hoban family has paid.”

Golden also announced to attendees that a member of the NYPD’s K-9 unit is to be named after Hoban. “That is something that is special and is not done without thought and process,” he said. “I thank the K-9 unit for making this happen.”

Other electeds in attendance included Assemblymember Nicole Malliotakis, Councilmember Vincent Gentile and Congressmember Dan Donovan.

Each year, the run funds the Police Alumni of Xaverian Scholarship Program, established to aid children of police officers.

“We’re so proud that through this scholarship we are able to continue Chris’ memory and keep alive all the memories of the people who have gone in the line of duty,” said Alesi. “It’s such a need and it’s an event like this that raises awareness for all of us of how we should appreciate the work that is done each and every day.”

At this year’s run, longtime Hoban Run supporter Frank “Butch” Katen was honored posthumously with the P.O. Christopher Hoban Service to New York Award, presented to his family by Gentile.

As for placements, Johnny Nuzzela was victorious during the 5K run. Jesus Zamora won the five-mile race and Michael Vazquez was the Xaverian Student winner.

“We’ll never forget Chris and his dedication to our community and city,” added Donovan. “He’s a Bay Ridge hero, New York City hero and American hero.”

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