A Day to Remember: The 2025 In-Person Cure Coats’ 5K Shines in Golden Gate Park

Jun 23

The 2025 In-Person Cure Coats’ 5K was a spectacular success, bringing together the Coats’ Disease community on Saturday, June 21, 2025 for a day of awareness, athleticism, and celebration. Held for the first time in San Francisco’s iconic Golden Gate Park, the event welcomed a record number of runners and supporters from across the Bay Area and beyond.

The sun was shining, spirits were high, and the scenic new location provided the perfect backdrop for a morning filled with energy and unity. More participants than ever before laced up their shoes in support of the Jack McGovern Coats’ Disease Foundation’s mission to find a cure and support those affected by Coats’ Disease.

Runners and attendees were inspired by moving remarks from members of the Coats’ Community, including Jack McGovern, the Foundation’s namesake; long-time Board Member and Race Director Gary Brickley; and Executive Director Deborah Marron. Their words highlighted the impact of the Foundation’s work and the importance of events such as the Cure Coats’ 5K.

Saturday’s race also marked the official kickoff of the weeklong Virtual Cure Coats’ 5K, inviting participants from around the world to join the movement in their own communities. From coast to coast and beyond the U.S., runners and walkers are stepping up throughout the week to raise awareness and critical funds—no matter where they are!

At the finish line in Golden Gate Park, medals were awarded to the top runners in each category, while every participant proudly received a ribbon to commemorate their role in this meaningful event.

Congratulations to our top finishers:

Adult Male

🥇 Jason Reed – 20:44
🥈 Brian McGovern – 22:25
🥉 Ron Baxter – 24:18

Adult Female

🥇 Georgia Komboj – 20:54
🥈 Megan Lucas – 28:50
🥉 Vanessa Virto – 30:03

12 & Under Female

🥇 Vivian Kircher – 43:42
🥈 Penelope Kircher – 43:43
🥉 Soraya Safizadeh – 48:15

The 2025 Cure Coats’ 5K was more than a race — it was a day of joy, strength, and hope. And with virtual participants continuing the momentum all week long, the impact of this event will ripple far and wide. Thank you to everyone who ran, walked, volunteered, or donated. Together, we are making a difference!