The Staten Island Runner

3 Mile Fun Run

January 4, 2003

Richie Orazem and Barbara Byrne posted victories at the weekly SIAC Run for Fun at Clove Lakes Park. Orazem covered the three mile course in 17:36, easily defeating second place Frank Connelly (19:06). Gene Galasso (19:40), Mark Vogt (19:49) and Tim McCauley (19:55) rounded out the top five overall finishers.

Byrne won the women's division in 21:01, narrowly defeating second place Gail Marino (21:22). Alma Ramos (25:31), Lisa Rigolini (27:12) and Ruth Fairbrother (29:39) were third through fifth among the women.

A cloudy, cold day greeted the runners and Richie Orazem broke away early from the pack to cruise to victory. On the other hand, Barbara Byrne needed a strong push in the second loop to overcome Gail Marino. Alma Ramos came back from another injury and finished a distant third, but was happy to be back, I'm sure.

Canines were abound today, as Steve Woitkowski introduced Max to the parade, while Ruth Fairbrother and Pat Mangus ran with their furry friends as usual. Soon we'll have to have a separate set of awards to the four-legged runners.

Mike Garone's brother Steve was in town from Boston, and expected to beat Mike like a drum as usual. But Mike crossed the finish line first, unchallenged. It turns out Steve had a "nature call" after the first loop, but we have nature calls every week from the many geese lining the course?! Oh, I think I know what he meant, now that I think about it.

Monthly club meeting at Jody's on Forest Avenue, Monday 1/6 at 8PM - officer elections highlight the show.