The Hunns Lake Inaugural Run
By Pete Carson
The Fire Chief's Motto: When in trouble, when in doubt, run in circles, scream and shout!
On Nov 3rd, at the inaugural running of the Hunns Lake Food Pantry Run, the only running in circles were the race participants going around the lake.
Honestly, as a first time race director with my wife, I was amazed at all the work necessary to stage a race.
Barbara works under the 6P's- Proper Prior Planning Prevents Poor Performance. With this firmly in mind, the only chaos evident was from myself, trying to place the course markers around the roads at the last minute.
At the registration table, Theresa Weiss and Cathy Nicholson were signing up the runners.
With Pete Sanfilippo, Irv Miller, Claude Bodley, Deborah Schwartz, and Jeff Nero working the scoring and the start/finish lines, we knew that section was in good hands. Because I wouldn't have a clue how to do that, I was glad to see them there.
Joan Fitzpatrick and Kris Kennedy handling the homemade soups and chili refreshments meant that the runners would be well fed. Nancy Leggett, Phil Silvestri, Luke Kohlmaier and Adam Clark, along with Steve Reilly, manned the key intersections, with assistance from the D.C.S.O. Bart Kohlmaier and Jackie Huber helped out at the parking area.
As the runners gathered for the 2.2 mile run at the start line, I noticed Barb standing at the front. Since I was announcing with the P.A. system at Race Central (the hill in front of our house) I assumed she was speaking to the runners, thanking them for coming. As the race began, I saw Barb running with the others!! What, she left me in charge? OH NO! I can't be in charge. Panic sets in.
About ten minutes later, Barb called me from her cell phone, asking me to gather up the 4.5 milers and get them ready to start. Barb's running the races, as she's running the race herself. I feel much better. Panic subsides.
As the 4.6 milers line up, I am pleased to announce our international guests. Anna Grete and Holgar Jacobson from Denmark were visiting the Kopacs and Grigulls. They decided to join us—as race directors of the Danish Aabenraa Bjergmarathon marathon, they were impressed with the course and the food we collected.
The runners went off and I got a chance to take a deep breath. I encouraged the first set of runners finishing their race to go up the hill and enjoy the food. Several minutes later, I started the 2.2 mile walkers.
After everyone had finished the course, Barb started handing out the Awards. The runners who received the hand-made afghans, fleece blankets and Boo-Boo bags with candles seemed very happy. Some people even said they chose this race because of the prizes!
After all the runners were fed and rested, they left and we began cleanup. This course was much easier to clean than the Classic's, and soon Barb and I had a chance to relax.
A hard day's work, preceded by weeks of planning, seemed to go well. But this race would never have been successful without the help of so many people. Even a small event like this one needs a large group of people dedicated to our sport. THANK YOU to all who assisted us!!
We also thank all the runners, and friends, community businesses and residents who helped us gather over 800 pounds of food and $600 to give to our local food pantries in Dover Plains, Pine Plains and St. Columba in Hopewell. The directors of the pantries were very grateful. Bless you all, for what you have done for others!