Thirty-eight years on, Bay Ridge still runs for Christopher Hoban — a young NYPD officer killed in the line of duty in 1988 — and the annual memorial run along Shore Road has become one of the neighborhood's most enduring traditions. The waterfront course under the Verrazzano's gaze draws police families, local runners and neighbors who simply come out to cheer. It's a race where the point is remembering, and the community shows up accordingly.
What to expect
Expect a morning gathering at the Shore Road waterfront, a mixed field of competitive runners, officers and casual walkers, and warm crowd support along the route. Ceremonial moments honoring Officer Hoban frame the run.
Good to know
- Along Shore Road near 71st St in Bay Ridge
- Take the R to Bay Ridge Av and walk toward the water
- Registration details are handled by the organizers — check locally to enter
- Spectating and cheering along Shore Road is free and welcomed
- The Shore Road promenade offers harbor and bridge views
- Post-run gatherings are part of the tradition
Planning Sep 19–20, 2026 in NYC?
This list keeps changing as events are verified. We'll send you the final version the Thursday before — and you can unsubscribe right after if that's all you need.
Common questions
Who was Christopher Hoban?
An NYPD officer killed in the line of duty in 1988 while working undercover; the annual Bay Ridge run has honored him for nearly four decades.
Can anyone run?
The memorial run is a community event open to entrants — check with the organizers for registration — and spectators are welcome along Shore Road.
