Run for Haiti - Festival Gallery

The Run for Haiti was a response to a tragedy of epic proportions. And yet, the mood at the event on February 20 was one of hope and celebration, as nearly 10,000 runners and walkers joined together on a beautiful morning in Central Park to raise hundreds of thousands of dollars to provide direct relief to the people of Haiti. Several prominent New York politicians, including Haitian-born New York City Councilman Mathieu Eugene, spoke at the start, as did NYRR staff member Paola Baptiste, also a native of Haiti, whose extended family there fortunately survived the earthquake. The Haiti Relief Fund of the Mayor’s Fund to Advance New York City collected donations on-site at the post-race festival.
 
The group Voix et Tambours d’Haiti performed the Haitian national anthem, La Dessalinienne, at the start, and then sang “We Are the World” as the race began. The post-race festival featured a performance by Zetwal Dancers and a short but moving speech by Haitian national record-holder Steeve Gabart, who traveled from his home in Florida to take part in the Run for Haiti and finished in 25:24. “Your entry fees today will go to families in Haiti who need food, shelter, and basic necessities,” said Gabart. “I want to thank everyone.” [Coverage] [Results]