Poland Spring Marathon Kickoff

October 25, 2009 - [Story] [Video]

ING New York City Marathon week started gloriously with this five-mile race in Central Park, which finishes at the renowned marathon finish line. There were more than 5,300 finishers on an ideal day for running. NYRR president and CEO Mary Wittenberg set a positive tone at the start by exhorting the crowd to cheer for all those who plan to run the ING New York City Marathon next Sunday—from the runners with sub-3:00 ambitions to those whose goal is to finish their first marathon. [Results]

There’s always a festive atmosphere at this race, which has enjoyed the longtime support of Poland Spring® Brand Natural Spring Water.
With Halloween just six days away, some participants were in the costumed spirit.
The race started on the park’s West Drive north of Tavern on the Green and headed north.
Just happy to be out and moving on a splendid fall day, this runner celebrated in the first mile.
Runners ran under a canopy of green and gold foliage, with a few crunching leaves underfoot.
Fred’s Team members Lori Lerma (left) and Nicole Kim ran side by side early on.
Stuart Birdt pushed hard up the final hill toward the finish; he finished in 37:15.
Spectators (and Yankees fans) urged the runners on from the sidelines.
Trick or treat?
Team for Kids member Markus Marty was a vision in green en route to his 45:17 finish.
For some, Halloween fun combined with bringing attention to worthy causes.
Chris Pannone of the New York Athletic Club broke the tape in 24:14—that’s 4:50-per-mile pace.
Women’s champ Jacy Kruzel of Gainesville, FL, ran a zippy 29:02 and finished way out front.
Vaughn Diana Alexander (left) and Nancy Liu had identical 52:06 finishing times.
Live music in Mineral Springs after the race added to the festive atmosphere.
Nothing feels better than a good post-race stretch…
…and nothing tastes better than a carb-replenishing bagel.
Good sports always shake hands at the finish…
…and healthy runners always take time to recover and refuel.
A perfect day in New York—and a great week ahead!