The Staten Island Runner

3 Mile Fun Run

November 8, 2003

By Dave Panza

Steve Woitkowski and Gail Marino were the winners in the weekly SIAC Run for Fun at chilly Clove Lakes Park. Woitkowski covered the three mile course in 18:35, narrowly outlasting second place Rich Orazem (18:38). Luis Oyola was a few strides back in 18:42, while Gene Galasso (19:07) and Tim Drury (19:22) rounded out the top five overall.

Marino handily won the women's race in 20:16, defeating second place Mary Molski (23:46). Lisa Rigolini (25:09), Marquel Clark (25:46) and Ellen Brennan Hearn (27:15) claimed third through fifth.

This Fun Run had more drama than any Fun Run in recent memory, with Steve Woitkowski holding off a fast charging Rich Orazem, who decided to spot the frontrunners quite a big margin in the first loop before taking off at full speed. Luis Oyola returned after a long absence from the Fun Run, and was ahead at the first turn before settling for third. Newcomer Tim Drury from the Coast Guard made an auspicious debut by capturing fifth.

Gail Marino won handily on the women's side, and continued to lower her time as she approaches the 20 minute barrier relentlessly. Congratulations to new SIAC member Ellen Brennan Hearn on her fifth place finish.