The Chris Conway Memorial Run and 1 Mile Walk

Ridgefield Park High School
1 Ozzie Nelson Drive
Ridgefield Park, NJ US 07660

Chris rediscovered his love of running at age 40. As a former captain of the RPHS cross country team, running had always been a part of him, but life’s responsibilities placed it on the back burner for many years. His passion reignited when his sons began running in high school—first Christopher Ronan at Bergen Catholic, and later Brendan James at RPJSHS. Some of Chris’s most cherished memories were running 5Ks alongside Brendan, their bond growing deeper as the roles gradually reversed, with Brendan offering his father running advice.

Over the years, Chris completed nine marathons, beginning at age 49 with the Marine Corps Marathon in Washington, D.C., where Christopher was in college. One of his proudest accomplishments was qualifying by time for the 2012 NYC Marathon, though the race was ultimately canceled due to Hurricane Sandy. A devoted member of the Clifton Roadrunners, Chris competed in countless races, earning the USATF Masters Gold Phidippides Award in both 2010 and 2011 for excellence in long-distance running, and the club’s Master Runner of the Year Award in 2011 after setting a marathon PR. His family admired his unwavering commitment to running every day, in all weather, meticulously recording his progress in his running journals. Even in December 2023, while ill, Chris managed to take a final lap of the All Schools Special Needs 5K, helping a close friend finish her very first race—true to his spirit as the ultimate cheerleader for others.

Chris also proved it’s never too late to pursue a dream. At 58, he began guitar lessons, and music quickly became one of the happiest chapters of his life. Gathering with lifelong and high school friends, he formed the band Scarlet Fever, blending classic rock and Americana—favorites like The Grateful Dead and The Band. They played house parties, local venues such as Vitale’s and the Westside Tavern, and most joyfully, the RP All Schools Special Needs Casino Night.

Chris lived with cancer for six years, but embraced each day with purpose and joy. He continued working full-time, traveled often—including a memorable trip to Italy with his wife, Karen—and focused on being present. Though unable to run in his last days, Chris never set aside his music. On July 4th, he gathered with family and friends in his home, filling it with music and love, fulfilling a final wish. Among his greatest joys was becoming a grandfather to Mairead Eileen. Their 17 months together were filled with laughter, love, and countless treasured moments. He also shared a deep bond with Stefanie and Sarah, and in his final week, found comfort surrounded by his family. 

Christopher Mark Conway – A life well lived, in love and happiness.

 

 

 

 

Chris Conway rediscovered his love for running at age 40, inspired by his sons, Christopher and Brendan. Some of his favorite memories were running 5Ks with Brendan, watching their bond grow as the roles reversed and Brendan began coaching him.

Over the years, Chris completed nine marathons, including the Marine Corps Marathon in Washington, D.C., and proudly qualified for the 2012 NYC Marathon. A longtime member of the Clifton Roadrunners, he earned the USATF Masters Gold Phidippides Award and was named the club’s Master Runner of the Year in 2011. Rain or shine, Chris never missed a run and inspired countless others with his dedication and encouragement.

Beyond running, Chris found joy in music. At 58, he picked up the guitar, eventually forming the band Scarlet Fever with friends. Playing local gigs and community events became one of his greatest passions.

Chris’s life was defined by resilience, passion, and community. Naming this race in his honor is a celebration of the joy and connection he shared with everyone around him.
 

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