The Staten Island Runner

3 Mile Fun Run

April 12, 2003

By Dave Panza

Richie Orazem and Barbara Byrne posted victories at the weekly SIAC Run for Fun at Clove Lakes Park. This Fun Run was dedicated to the men and women of our Armed Forces serving in Iraq. Orazem covered the three-mile course in 17:22, outlasting second place Scott LaMorte (17:53). Jeff Benjamin (18:08), Dean Grusky (18:13) and Frank Connelly (18:16) rounded out the top five overall finishers.

Byrne won the women's race in 19:58 by breaking open a close battle with second place finisher Mary Curran (20:13). Gail Marino (21:34), Annmarie Ruta (21:59) and Christine Connelly (22:50) rounded out the top five female finishers.

Despite the cold, rainy weather, nearly 50 runners participated in today's race dedicated to our brave Armed Forces serving in Iraq. Alma Ramos opened the proceedings with her usual stirring rendition of the Star Spangled Banner. We all joined in next with an emotional, if not professional, version of God Bless America, led by Sean Dixon.

Richie Orazem pushed for a powerful victory, while Barbara Byrne overcame Mary Curran in the second loop for a hard-earned win. Tommy Hart and Mark Vogt ran proudly carrying American flags.

Much thanks to Karen McNamara for conceiving of the idea and then doing much of the preparation and follow through for this rousing success. Several restaurants, including the Lake Cafe, donated food and supplies generously for the occasion. Kudos also to the SIAC, Richmond Rockets and Gateway Runners teams who all heavily participated today.

A Parks Department officer apparently was not caught up in the excitement of the event, but instead patrolled the full parking lot looking for expired inspection stickers. He successfully ticketed Fred Rigolini for a "very expired" sticker. We all hope this allows the officer to reach his April quota, and the Armed Forces congratulates him on his professionalism and spirit.