Posted by ernie beach on September 07, 2005 at 17:48:52:
ROAD RACING/CROSS COUNTRY
Celic Run on tap Saturday
Sunday, September 04, 2005
By GEORGE KOCHMAN
ADVANCE STAFF WRITER
The fall road racing season opens with a bang Saturday when the 30th annual Celic Run is contested at Clove Lakes Park. Post time for the four-miler is 10 a.m.
The Celic brothers, Marty and Tom, were track and cross country stars at Monsignor Farrell HS. Marty Celic, a champion high jumper and hurdler, lost his life while fighting a fire in lower Manhattan in 1976.
His younger brother Tom, who excelled in cross country, and later became the first Island finisher at the New York City Marathon, perished on Sept. 11.
The course is not easy, featuring a long upgrade just after the mile marker.
In recent years, Islanders have had a tough time, though Francisco Perez became the first Islander to win this race in many years. Last year, he beat Alem Kahsay, the Ethiopian star who has captured many local road races.
The women's race last year saw two Ethiopians battle for the title, with Genet Gebregiodrgi beating Alemtesehay Misganan in the last mile.
There are plenty of fine awards in this race, including cash prizes of $200, $100 and $75 to the top three male and female finisher.
Age group prizes go the top three male and female finishers in 10-year age categories.
Additional awards will be presented to the first three firefighters, the first three law enforcement officers, and leading Clydesdale and Athena finishers.
Pre-entry fee is $16, and $20 on race day. Entry fee includes a handsome T-shirt. In addition, the first 200 entrants will receive commemorative bandanas.
Runners may pick up race packets on Thursday at the Cargo Cafe, 120 Bay St. from 6-10 p.m.
There is also a two-mile health walk, with pre-entry fee $12, with a T-shirt included. Post entry fee for the walk is $15.