The New Hyde Park-Mineola Runners Club 40th Anniversary 8K last weekend was met by a special surprise guest: the sun. Runners from across Long Island were overjoyed to see clear skies and temperatures in the mid-60-to-low-70-degree range the morning of the race, Sunday, June 4, despite unpromising rainy forecasts days prior.
The 40th installment of the annual run was especially important to club members, and to those who have taken part in the event each year, as it is one of the three oldest races on Long Island. Once again, the day’s proceeds were directed toward Nassau County Firefighters Operation Wounded Warriors.
When asked what has contributed to the overall success of the club throughout the years, President Harold Axelrod replied, “the people.” He continued, “We get people from across the Island, New York City and Westchester. Everybody wants to be a part of it.”
Runners from all over the Island were in attendance. Some ran as individuals, while others registered as a team.
Beginning at Denton Avenue School in New Hyde Park, the annual event commenced
with a Kids Run at 8 a.m., followed by the 4.97-mile run, a USA Track and Field certified course and part of the Grand Prix Championship Series, at 8:30 a.m.
After some encouraging words by announcer Terry Bisogno, participants made their way through the residential streets of New Hyde Park and Manhasset Hills, across the Long Island Expressway Service Road and down Shelter Rock Road before crossing the finish line at the back athletic field of Denton Avenue School.
Along the way, there were mile markers and race volunteers on hand to cheer on the runners and provide them with water. The Nassau County Police Department played an integral role in ensuring the safety of the runners, monitoring road closures and directing traffic.
At the finish line, where EliteFeats took complimentary photos and videos, runners were met with a commemorative medal, as well as a spread of post-race food including orange slices, watermelon and bagels. Between the Kids Run and the 8K, there were more than 400 participants.
Finishers in each age division and the top overall male and female finishers were presented with awards. The first place overall male finisher was Sean Mahon, 31, of Merrick, and the first place female was Victoria Kornieva-Robitaille, 29, of Amityville.
Runners from the Great Neck community fared well in the race. Their names and times are as follows: Alex Schneider (28:58) came in fifth place out of 287 runners, Vivien Lim (33:25) was the first woman in her age group to cross the finish line and Laurie Spinello (50:18) came in the middle of her age division.
For more information about the race results, including photos and videos, visit www.elitefeats.com/race-results.asp?ID=248.
