The Cresskill 5K returned to the streets of Cresskill, New Jersey on Sunday, September 28, 2025, bringing together runners of all ages and abilities for a morning of fitness, fun, and community spirit. This USATF certified course event continues to serve as a cornerstone fundraiser for the Cresskill Health and Wellness Foundation, the Cresskill Board of Health, and the Badges and Books Relief Project. With 100% of proceeds supporting programs that improve the health and wellness of Cresskill residents and assist local families facing extraordinary challenges, this race exemplifies the power of community coming together for a greater cause.
Race Results Analysis
Overall Winners
The 2025 Cresskill 5K saw impressive performances at the front of the pack. Jonathan Simon from New York claimed the overall victory with a stellar time of 20:48.76 (6:42 pace), showcasing the competitive caliber that this race continues to attract. At 58 years old, Simon’s performance was particularly remarkable, achieving a 75.0% age-graded performance.
The women’s race was led by Honey Sonn from Demarest, NJ, who crossed the finish line in 21:03.69 (6:47 pace). The 32-year-old’s strong performance earned her second place overall and demonstrated the depth of talent in the women’s field.
Youth Excellence
One of the most impressive performances of the day came from 15-year-old Cayden Cohen from Dumont, NJ, who claimed third place overall with a time of 21:04.83. This outstanding achievement highlights the growing strength of youth running in the tristate area and bodes well for the future of the sport in the region.
Local Community Representation
The race showcased strong local participation, with numerous Cresskill residents competing on their home course. Notable local performances included:
- Sang Hywan Han (4th overall, 21:03.44) – representing Cresskill with a strong sub-21:30 performance
- T. Perry (5th overall, 21:15.83) – an impressive 11-year-old showing the next generation of local talent
- JINJUN LEE (6th overall, 21:23.2) – another strong Cresskill representative
Age Group Highlights
The race featured competitive fields across all age divisions:
Men’s Divisions:
- M15U: T. Perry led the youth with his 5th place overall finish
- M20-29: Adrian Rodriguez (7th overall, 21:25.89) topped this competitive division
- M30-39: Roy Assor claimed the win with a 21:26.17 performance
- M40-49: Ray Lee dominated with a 21:59.25 clocking
- M50-59: JINJUN LEE’s 21:23.2 was the standout performance
- M60+: Steven Lash represented the masters well with 27:06.88
Women’s Divisions:
- F15U: Nayeon Kwon from Cresskill led the young women with 27:14.76
- F20-29: Erin Davis from Paramus topped this group with 24:41.26
- F30-39: Keli Alvarez from Cresskill won with 24:07.84
- F40-49: Arielle Friedman from Alpine claimed victory with 24:38.82
- F50-59: No finishers recorded in this division
- F60+: Elizabeth Moss from Tenafly led the masters women with 24:34.53
Looking Ahead
The 2025 Cresskill 5K once again proved that community-focused racing can successfully combine athletic excellence with meaningful charitable impact. With strong performances across all age groups and continued local support, this event remains a highlight of the tristate racing calendar and a vital contributor to community health and wellness initiatives.
Congratulations to all participants who contributed to making this event a success, and special recognition goes to the race organizers and volunteers who ensure that 100% of proceeds benefit those in need within the Cresskill community.
