Summer Sizzlers

The park was bustling with activity as week 3 of the Summer Sizzlers continued with the 8K race. Even with the park seemingly full twenty-seven runners managed to find parking spots and make their way to the starting line.

Sunny skies, cool temps and a slight breeze greeted the field. GSH’s Carlos Rivera, the all-time Sizzler wins leader, led the field down the opening straight and would go on for the wire-to-wire victory in 29:56. The win was Carlos’ first of the season and 63rd of his career. Second place honors went to SS’s Dave Merkt in 31:17 and GSH’s Bill Carroll took 3rd overall and top Youth (0-19) in 31:44. Age group winners were Carlos in the Open (20-39) division, EORC’s Pete Campbell’s 38:34 was good for top place in the Master’s (40-49) division, GSH’s Kevin Pfau was first Senior (50-59) with a time of 32:57, GSH’s Randy Sujat was first Veteran (60-69) in 42:11 and GSH’s Dick Osgood was the first 70+ division winner with a time of 53:19.

The women’s race unfolded similar to the men’s race, with GSH’s Kathy McCarthy pacing the field from the opening bell. Kathy would go on to win the race in 38:11. The win was Kathy’s first of the season and second of her career. Second female and first Senior belonged to GSH’s Barbara Bosworth in 39:20 and 3rd place female honors went to Maura Feeney with a time of 44:58. Age group winners were Jaiden O’Kane as first Youth in 1:08:21, Maura Feeney was first Open (20-39) female, GSH’s Heather Lowe was first Master in 47:17 and Kathy McCarthy was also top Senior.

Volunteers for the evening were Ed Carroll, Brian McCarthy, Bruce Kurtz and Brian “Ironman” Goddu. We return to the park next Wednesday for Race #4, the 5000 meter cross-he 5k XC is a true cross country course through wooded trails with short steep hills, tree roots, mud and streams. Thanks to all the runners, volunteers and spectators.

Mike Lescarbeau, Race Director

Overall Finish List