Operation Enduring Freedom 5K in Oak Ridge
The Operation Enduring Freedom 5K Fun Run and Walk, sponsored by the Knights of Columbus was held today at the American Legion Post # 423 in Oak Ridge. Organized by the Jefferson Arts Committee, this event was held to help send personal items, foods and snacks to our servicemen and women serving our country in Afghanistan.
The day started with scattered showers, but the weather cleared up just in time for the start of the race. About 40 runners from ages 15 to 70 participated in today's 5K (that’s 3.1 miles, by the way). For some it was their first ever race, for others it was one in more than 40 years of racing.
Top men finishers were Jeremy Reed, 32, of Oak Ridge with a time of 26.33.1, Max Goldstein, 15 of Oak Ridge with 27.13 and Raymond Amsden, 15, with a time of 29.31.
For the women, Tina Marie Montone, 44, of Oak Ridge came in first with a time of 35:00, Maria Amsden, 56, of Oak Ridge, was second with a 36.05, and Debra Bianchi, pushing her two sons in a running stroller, finished third with a time of 41.55.
First place finisher for the men, Jeremy Reed, 32, of Oak Ridge, with his cheering squad, Justin, 5, Brianna, 3, and Alexa, 7 months.
Max Goldstein, second place
Ray Amsden, third place
Jessica Montone, 16, of Jefferson Township High School hands Frank Diorio a welcome water bottle at the half-way point. Frank Diorio (age 70): I’ve been running 45 years. If I can do another 40, I’ll be allright!” Frank’s son, Major Frank Diorio Jr., was just awarded a bronze star for meritorious service in Afghanistan.
David Romano, 49, of Cozy Lake, finishes his first 5K, cheered on by his daughter, Nocolette, 7.
Tina Marie Montone of Oak Ridge, high-fives her daughter at the water station.
Debra Bianchi comes in 3rd pushing her sons, Steven Patrick, 4, and Christian Thomas, 2, in a double jogging stroller.
Running is a family affair; Max Goldstein helps his mom, Megan, cross the finish line
Raymond Amsden and his mom, Maria, enjoy their medals.
