Calverton 5K on March 28 Honors Teen Killed by Drunk Driver

Andrew McMorris would have turned 20 this week. Instead, hundreds of runners are expected to take to the airport runway at EPCAL Park in Calverton on Saturday to mark the milestone in his memory.

The fifth annual Andrew's Top Gun Run 5K, organized by the Suffolk County Council of Scouting America and the Andrew McMorris Foundation, is set for March 28 at 962 Burman Blvd., with the 5K starting at 9 a.m. and a fun run for children 12 and under beginning at 8:30 a.m. On-site registration opens at 7:30 a.m.

Andrew was 12 years old in September 2018 when a drunk driver struck members of Boy Scout Troop 161 while they were hiking the Greenbelt Trail. Several scouts were severely injured; Andrew died from his injuries. The lives of his family, fellow scouts, and community were changed permanently by the crash.

The race course itself reflects Andrew's passions. The 5K runs entirely on the former military runway at EPCAL Park, a nod to his love of aviation and scouting. Organizers describe it as a fast and flat course, and the chip-timed format means competitive runners have a legitimate shot at a personal best. Awards go to the top three male and female finishers overall, and to the top three male and female finishers across age groups spanning from 10-and-under through 85-plus. Refreshments will be available for finishers, and results will be posted online after the race. Jogging strollers are welcome.

Proceeds support the Andrew McMorris Foundation, which funds scholarships and scouterships in Andrew's name. The inaugural run was held in 2022.

Registration for the in-person 5K is $33.98, which includes a $3.98 processing fee. The fun run is $18.98 with the same fee included. A virtual option is also available. Online registration opened Friday at 3:30 p.m., but anyone who missed that window can register on-site starting at 7:30 a.m. Saturday. Participants who pre-registered can pick up their packets Friday evening from 5 to 7 p.m., directly on the runway.

From points west, take the Long Island Expressway to William Floyd Parkway Exit 68, head north, then exit for Route 25 East toward Calverton Executive Park. Turn right at the traffic light to enter Calverton Enterprise Park, then turn left onto the runway and follow signs to parking. From points east, take the LIE to the Route 25 East exit; the Calverton Executive Park entrance will be on the left. For more information, contact the Suffolk County Council of Scouting America at (631) 924-7000 or james.grimaldi@scouting.org.