Freshman Run Tradition Lives On with Class of 2024

The members of the Class of 2024 have had to wait a little while longer to experience some of the best traditions Christian Brothers Academy has to offer.

Just last month, the freshmen were able sign their Academy Oath. Now, they have finally paced the campus grounds in the Heath Freshman Run, one of the most unique traditions in the nation.

Named after CBA’s longtime cross country coach Tom Heath ’65, the Freshman Run is a 1.3-mile race around the 157-acre campus that every freshman has run dating back to the school’s opening in 1959. The run was originally intended as a recruiting tool for the cross country team, but has become a staple of the Academy tradition that promotes class bonding and camaraderie.

It’s a tradition that binds current students and alumni. The Freshman Run demonstrates many of the characteristics that will describe the Class of 2024’s four years at CBA: hard work, challenges, achievement, and most importantly, brotherhood.

Just prior to heading out to the starting line, Chris Bennett ’94 spoke to the class on how to make the most of your time at CBA. Bennett, who taught history and coached cross country for many years at CBA, gave firsthand examples on why the Academy brotherhood is different.

“If you can be the least important person in the room, you are going to be very happy because you will find that there is always an opportunity to make someone else better and put someone else first,” Bennett said. “That doesn’t mean you ignore your own needs, it just means you pay attention to those around you. That’s a great thing to learn at CBA.”

After the Run, the freshmen took part in field day style activities, including tug-of-war, whiffle ball, and more.

The entire day was a welcome sight for the youngest Colts, signaling a great three years ahead for these young men.

About Christian Brothers Academy:
Christian Brothers Academy (CBA) is a private, Catholic, academic preparatory school for boys located in Lincroft, New Jersey. Founded in 1959 and taught in the Lasallian tradition, CBA is dedicated to helping students become intellectually mature and morally responsible leaders for society. Through generous contributions from family and friends of the Academy, CBA awards over $1.9 million in scholarships and financial aid to current students. Experience the Academy at CBALincroftNJ.org.