COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Columbus Blue Jackets finished their NHL season earlier this month, a season marked by the death of Johnny Gaudreau and his brother, Matthew.

What You Need To Know

  • The Columbus Blue Jackets' season was marked this year by the death of player Johnny Gaudreau and his brother, Matthew

  • They died in Aug last year while bicycling close to their hometown in New Jersey

  • There is a 5k in honor of the family and to support an adaptive playground

  • There is a virtual option to participate in the race

The brothers were killed while bicycling near their hometown in southern New Jersey on the eve of their sister’s wedding on Aug. 29.

In honor of the brothers, and as a way to support the family, the public can take part in the 1st Annual Gaudreau Family 5L, organized by Friends of the Gaudreau Family. It takes place at 8 a.m. on May 31 at the Washington Lake Park in Sewell, New Jersey.

The 5k fundraiser not only supports the family and honors the brothers but also will help build a playground at Archbishop Damiano school for kids with disabilities.

The in-person competitive and non-competitive 5ks are already sold-out, but Ohio supporters can still participate through the virtual 5k walk/run. You can sign up here.

You need to complete a 5k between May 24 and 31 (by 11 a.m.). The first 500 registered will receive a t-shirt and medal.

The cost is $40, with proceeds going to the school’s playground.

The Associated Press contributed to this article.

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