Author: Kevin Ford
The Racing Team had another strong showing at the second major event of the spring racing season. The weather was unseasonably warm and windy weather did not hold the Striders back as they toed the line in one of the most competitive 5ks in the state.
Hannah Betman continued her winning ways, taking a hard-fought victory in the 5k race in 16:45, only seconds ahead of a very competitive ladies field. As in other races, Hannah’s consistent pacing and strong finish made the difference in a race that saw three women break 17:00.
The club’s first runner across the finish was Carlos Renjifo. The longtime Racing Team member claimed the master’s crown in a time of 16:00, joining fellow Strider Julia Roman-Duval as the team swept the top master’s honors.
Not to be outdone, many Striders triumphed in age group competitions, including Paul Hugus (1st, M40-44), Jason Tripp (1st, 50-54), Caroline Bauer (1st, F40-44), Tunde Morakinyo (1st, M60-64), John Chall (1st, M65-69), and Marsha Demaree (1st, F60-64).
The team also saw strong performances from Kristen Gray (F5th in 17:43), Stephanie Reich (F14th in 18:29), Samantha Merkel (F17th in 18:39), Adam Sachs (19th overall in 16:06), Jessica Ponds (F23rd in 19:16), Kevin Ford (25th overall in 16:38), Alex Livernois (26th overall in 16:41), Jacob Englander (M35th in 17:15), Adam Wytko (M36th in 17:19), Qiang Tian (M68th in 18:51).
