Event a complete success once again

TOWN CRIER- WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2008

Road race brings out hundreds of runners

By MIKE GIANNATTASIO
Sports Correspondent

On Sunday, the fourth annual Half Marathon/5K road race was another success as hundreds of participants showed up on the rainy morning to run and raise money for the Wilmington community. The event had a 13.1 mile road race, along with the new addition of the 5K run or walk.

Laura Ahern has been a part of the road races since its inaugural in 2005, and she said it was a great turnout again this year.

“We had so much fun the day of the event,” said Ahern, the assistant director of the rewarding day. “The rain couldn't have stopped any of us. We had over 300 runners/walkers, and the day went off successfully without a hitch. We are so lucky to have dedicated people that are committed to making this event successful. We have received numerous e-mails complimenting us on the course, the organization of the race, and the free food/entertainment.

“Our hard work and dedication paid off and we ended up raising more money than in previous years. We can't wait to present the checks to the high school students and the Wilmington Community Fund, which helps out the food pantry.”

Denise Gentile is the other assistant director of the races, and she agreed with Ahern as she thought the day was terrific as well.

“I think the day went great,” said Gentile. “Even though the weather was rainy the people came out. I give them credit. The runners and the help were all there. We always try to do our best and I feel people realized it and enjoyed themselves. I thank everyone for all the support we get.”

Ahern enjoyed many parts of the day, but she said the best were watching all the runners, especially children, having fun.

“I enjoyed seeing the dedicated Half Marathon runners show up and ready to run - rain or shine,” said Ahern. “I enjoyed seeing all the young kids with their families and friends enthusiastic about raising money for their charity even in the pouring rain. I loved seeing Veronica Slater and her (Cystic Fibrosis) team with smiles on their faces when they finished and then waiting for her mom Cheryl to finish the Half Marathon.”

Gentile also liked watching Veronica smile when her mother finished the 13.1 mile race.

“Seeing Veronica Slater come across the finish line was amazing,” said Slater. “I liked watching everyone come across the finish line. Seeing the look on their faces, knowing what they had accomplished, being young or old was great.”

Cheryl Slater, who ran the half marathon to benefit her nine year old daughter who was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis, was clocked at 2:12:43 in the half marathon.

“I think it was a great day,“ said Slater. “I think the success of the event goes to the organizers, volunteers, runners and spectators. On such a rainy day everyone was in great spirits and it was truly contagious.
“My favorite part of the day was hearing how enthusiastic and proud my children and their friends were for finishing a 5K race. They all want to do another one soon. This to me is worth running 13 miles in the rain any day.”

Ahern said that there are several people that was worth mentioning for setting up the day.

“First, I want to once again thank our company sponsors, because without them, this race wouldn't happen,” said Ahern. “Secondly, I would really like to thank Ed and Sue Coughlin of Wilmington for making the course such a success. They are there each and every year with their team of volunteers including the Wilmington Rotary Club at every mile along the race with mile markers and water stops. Ed and Sue are such an intricate part of the race, we appreciate everything they do.

“Thirdly, I would like to thank the Wilmington Police for their support and Michael Ciara, Town Manger for his participation in this years event. Lastly, I want to sincerely thank "all" the volunteers and participants of the race, because their dedication is outstanding.”

Ahern also added that she hopes to see more participants at the race next year and help raise money for the community.

“We are so lucky to have family and friends in our lives that fight for something they believe in,” said Ahern. “I am just so happy we can help out in such a small way. We hope to see you next year because you are truly making a difference. Please remember it's never to early to sponsor the race.”