Photos and Video: Strong Turnout at Albany Ave. 5K

Runners from the ages of four to 69 participated in the second annual 5K and Fun Run on Sunday.

More than 290 total runners took part in the race, organized by the Albany Ave. PTA. The proceeds will go toward refurbishing classroom reading centers.

Franklin Diaz, 27, of Farmingdale, crossed the finish line in 17 minutes 30 seconds, finishing first. Anthony Lay, 33, of North Bellmore came in second and Eric Friedman, 45, of Merrick, came in third.

Last year 170 runners participated. This year Albany Avenue had many runners representing the school, including students, teachers and administrators. A special age category – ages 9 and under – was created to honor the large number of students who turned out for the race, and Albany Avenue took five of the six top spots.

A Fun Run, which featured approximately 100 runners, preceded the 5K, which was
hosted by Albany Avenue’s Shared Decision-Making Team and PTA.

served free hot dogs and hamburgers following the race, and donated bagels. There were other local businesses there offering contest prizes, giveaways and coupons.

Boys 9 and under:
1st place: Jack Rhein, 8, with a time of 28:46.
2nd place: Frankie Vereline, 9, with a time of 30:06.
3rd place: Paolo Capucciati, 7, with a time of 34:59.

Girls 9 and under:
2nd place: Jaden Keener, 8, with a time of 33:10.
3rd place: Megan Kane, 9, with a time of 35:53.

Albany Avenue Teachers and Staff:
• Fourth grade teacher Isabel Wilimczyk, 2nd in her division, with a time of 28:34.
• Fourth grade teacher Megan Miller, 3rd in her division, with a time of 31:02.
• Custodian Trefon Morrison, 3rd in his division, with a time of 24:11.
• Fifth grade teacher Paul Bedell, 3rd in his division, with a time of 25:56.
• Office staffer Carole Olivera, 1st in her division, with a time of 52:49.

For a full listing of results, click here.