Daniela Conte Foundation Butterfly 5K

The Butterfly 5K is one of those races that hits you a little differently before you even get to the start line. It’s run in memory of Daniela Marie Conte, an 8-year-old who spent four years fighting a rare pediatric cancer called Rhabdomyosarcoma before passing away in March 2020. The Daniela Conte Foundation she left behind raises money for families of children with cancer and funds research to help kids fighting the disease. This race is the foundation’s flagship event, and the energy reflects that.

Heckscher State Park is a genuinely nice place to run. The USATF certified 5K loop uses the park’s walk/bike paths, so the surface is smooth and the surroundings are scenic. It’s mostly flat, which makes it approachable for runners and walkers of all paces. The field tends to be a warm, community crowd rather than a competitive one. Orangetheory Fitness of Long Island is the presenting sponsor, so expect a little extra energy in the staging area.

The event has grown to include a lot of extras: age group medals, cancer fighter and survivor recognition, face painting, games, and a post-race beer from Lunchbox Brewing Company for participants 21 and over. T-shirts and finisher medals are guaranteed for the first 500 registrants. Plan to arrive between 7:30 and 8:30 AM for packet pickup.

What to Know:
• Finisher medals and t-shirts guaranteed for the first 500 registrants. Shirt sizes are not guaranteed.
• There’s an $8 parking fee if you arrive after 8 AM. Budget extra time to get in, park, and get to packet pickup.
• Kids Fun Run is for ages 8 and under and starts at 9:00 AM. The 5K starts at 9:30 AM.
• Baby strollers and joggers are permitted on the course but must start at the back of the pack.
• Awards go to the top 3 overall male and female finishers (trophies), plus top 3 in all age groups from 9-12 through 80+.
• This race is part of the NSRF Goodwill Gold Series. Check the race website for any additional details that develop closer to race day.