The Staten Island Runner

3 Mile Fun Run

March 1, 2003

By Dave Panza

SChris Biggs and Christine Connelly recorded victories at the weekly SIAC Run for Fun at Clove Lakes Park. Biggs covered the three-mile course in 17:29, outlasting second place Scott LaMorte (18:10). Luis Oyola (18:58), Gene Galasso (19:02) and Sean Lynch (19:41) rounded out the top five overall finishers.

Connelly won the women's division in 22:26, with Alma Ramos second in 23:54. Mary Molski (26:08), Ruth Fairbrother (28:43) were third and fourth, while Angela Conte and Donna Johnson tied for fifth in 31:00.

A pleasant morning greeted the runners today, although icy patches still covered the course, especially around Martling. With runners boldly attempting good times, accidents were inevitable. Dan Bisceglie narrowly avoided a spill by putting a hand down on the ground, but Charlie Marchese was not quite as fortunate and incurred a heavy fall on both elbows. OK, if this were figure skating, Dan would would get a minor one-tenth point deduction for a touch-down, but Charlie gets a full point deduction for a spill off a triple axel, minimizing his chances for even a bronze medal.

Chris Biggs outlasted Scott LaMorte for first place, but Scott was pleased with his effort, and predicted better days ahead. 10-year old Christine Connelly continues to impress, as she nears breaking 22:00. Coach Kenny McGill ran the course with her, imploring her with a constant "Come on". And speaking of imploring, Steve Hook would not let a colleague quit at the halfway point via his drill sergeant technique. And yes, the friend did finish.

Personal thanks to Alma Ramos for photos she gave me, which included Fred Rigolini, Mark Vogt, our lost friend Steve Lauria and myself. I often see Steve's cousin on the ferry and we sit together. The personal reminders of Steve and Tom Celic have not diminished with the passage of time. I still expect to see them, and then reality hits me again. I will never forget them, nor understand why we had to endure their loss and the loss of so many other wonderful people.

Next race is the Forest Avenue next Sunday, March 10 at 12:10. Apps will again be available after next week's Fun Run.