By John Burton
LONG BRANCH — Runners participating in the New Jersey Marathon training run on Sunday will “Get Their Pink On” in honor of the memory of Shrewsbury resident and triathlete Cole Porter.
Porter died last week from injuries sustained in a collision during last month’s Tour de Fair Haven bicycle race.
According to the Facebook pages for the NJ Marathon and PorterHouse Support Group by Porter’s friends and supporters, the run has been named “A Tribute to Cole.” It will include a 5- and 10-mile loop. Participants can donate to the Faye and Lily Education Fund, for Porter’s two children. There will be “Cole: Love Saves the Day” pink T-shirts on sale, as well.
The run is scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. in Pier Village, Ocean Boulevard and Laird Street, in front of the Sneaker Factory. New Jersey Marathon organizers will have fluid stations available, with water, gels and Gatorade free of charge to runners.
Porter, 38, was an avid and dedicated triathlete, who, friends said, loved to wear pink clothing while running and cycling. Porter collided with a race official on Sept. 15 while participating during an early heat of the Fair Haven race. He was hospitalized until his death Oct. 3.
After he was injured, friends and fellow athletes wore the pink shirts during an organized bike ride and 3.5-mile swim to show support for Porter and his family.
