Nearly 1,800 runners, walkers and trotters turned out for the Nissequogue River State Park Foundation’s Turkey Trot held Thanksgiving morning.
The run, which is in its fifth year includes a 5K run and a 1K run for kids.The annual event takes runners through the scenic Nissequogue River State Park with the proceeds being used to support the foundation's campaign to enhance and beautify the park.
This year’s warm weather helped to spur a larger late registration with race bibs selling out before start time.
The National Anthem was sung by Kings Park resident, Cherie Lehmann and kids chased Tom the Turkey to earn a ribbon in their pursuit of everyone's favorite Thanksgiving Day meal.
Bobby Filacchione of Fullerton California was the men’s overall winner, with a winning time of 16 minutes and 13 seconds. Allan Wells of Orlando, Florida finished 2nd (16:23.9) and Gavin Shulock of Nesconset was 3rd (16:53.9).
Jennifer Lindstadt of Saint James was the top overall female finisher, with a time of 17 minutes and 25.3 seconds. Laura Cummings of Bay Shore was 2nd (17.35.8) and Callie Hogan of Bay Shore was 3rd (17:52.2). The masters top finishers were Una Broderick of Wantagh (19:27.7) and Francesco Martinez of Jackson Heights (17:52.5).
For the entire race results, click here.
Organizers of the event would like to thank the many sponsors and volunteers who helped make the run a success. The event’s success would not have been possible without the support of its major sponsors, including the Reichert Family, owners of IGA Fort Salonga and Larkfield Supermarkets and Bethpage Federal Credit Union and the many other sponsors listed on the foundation’s website at ourstatepark.com.
The foundation is also very grateful to the staff at the Nissequogue River State Park, the Suffolk County Police Department and the Smithtown Parks Department for helping to ensure the safety of all the participants.
Of course, this event could not have taken place without the many volunteers from throughout the local community. Special thanks to the Kings Park Soccer Club, Kings Park Youth, the Knights of Columbus and the local civic associations.
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