There were some people who got their new year's resolutions underway Sunday morning at the Saratoga new year's First Day 5K, and one person in particular preparing to honor his brother's memory.

Participants of all ages gathered at the Saratoga City Center, preparing for their first 5K of the year. For some, this is just another Sunday New Year’s day run. But for Douglas June, this will be his first ever 5K.

"My brother, Herbert June, just passed away, so I ran in honor of his name," said June, an Albany resident.

Douglas says he will use this run not only to clear his mind, but also to cope with the loss of his older brother, who passed away less than a month ago...

"He passed away unexpectedly, you know, and he was hard-hearted for my family; so what better way to honor him than to live my life to the fullest?" June said. 

The traditional Saratoga 5K was previously known as the First Night 5K. Now a new tradition is being ushered in as the First Day 5K. Nearly 700 people signed up for the first race, with the opportunity to win cash and prize rewards. 

By knocking one of those many resolutions off the list, it's a great way to kick off the new year.

"In honor of my brother, I wanted to finish the race without stopping,” said June. “So, I smashed my goal and I'm proud.”

The event organizers say they aim to make this an annual highlight for residents of the capital region for the New Year's Day weekend in the near future.