For the complete set of photos, click here.

Who would think that driving to Pearl street at 7 on a Saturday morning that you’d find throngs of people both child and child-like. Yet there they were, the citizens of Metuchen in full force for the annual Fuce5K Metuchen Family Fun Run. The run is organized yearly in memory of Michael Fuccile, a borough resident who was killed Sept. 4, 2008, on his way to work in Jersey City, where he served as chief compliance officer for Merrill Lynch. He left behind a wife of 10 years, Nancy, and three children, Michael, 7, Jack, 5 and Brooke, 3. Fuccile was 36.

“Mike was involved with town activities such as the Metuchen Little League; we wanted to do something that’s close to his heart so he won’t be forgotten,” said Justin Manley, another close friend and a Metuchen Council member, who used to coach Little League baseball with Fuccile.

The Fuce5K Metuchen Family Fun Run started in Pearl Street parking and follows a path to Route 27, up Main Street and around tree lined streets of town. It’s quite a trip around Metuchen that saw some of the runners literally stopping once in a while to admire the gorgeous turn of the century houses and greeneries. Or maybe they were just trying to catch their breath. Either way, the run served up a great way for families to spend time together and participate in an activity that’s both great for the body and for a worthy cause.

This year’s event also helped raise money for resident families in need. Manley, said Metuchen is a very tight-knit community. “We always rally around each other in times of need.” And the residents of Metuchen sure came in to show their support.

Prices were given to the top three finishers in different categories and everyone left knowing that for this crisp Saturday morning they did something not just for their physical well-being but for the benefit of others. Thanks Metuchen! And thank you Fuce5k organizers!

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A message from the organizers:

Thank you all for another tremendous Metuchen showing! We had over 660 registered runners & walkers, not including all of the impromptu 5 and under crowd running with parents under the great American flag.

We want to thank again all our sponsors, our support teams like the EMS, Fire, Police, and all our volunteers. Mostly though, thank you! For your unwavering commitment and unbelievable generosity!

– Fuce 5K Committee