Community Corner
Avon 5K Draws Hundreds of Runners
Annual event to support Avon First Aid Squad held during optimum conditions
More than 1,500 runners turned out to support the Avon First Aid Squad on Saturday morning to take part in the 16th Annual Avon 5K Run.
The run began at the municipal pool on Ocean Avenue and consisted of flat, shaded streets in Avon, primarily along the waterfront. All proceeds benefit the private, nonprofit volunteer first aid squad.
The event drew not only runners, walkers and runners pushing strollers who began at a different starting time.
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“I’m very impressed about the large number of people who came here to run,” said Marilyn Ryder, Long Branch.
Also on hand spectating were parents Mark and Michele Liska of Tinton Falls.
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“We are so proud of our son, Mike, and his enjoyment of running,” said Michele. “We’re so proud of his wife Courtney, who’s also a runner.”
Carly Depolo, Wall, president of one of the run’s sponsors, the Jersey Shore Running Club, was pleased with the amount of runners and support.
“It grows every year. I’m pleased with the turn out," she said.
Runners were pleased not only with their performance, but the ideal conditions.
“It was great – perfect weather. I’m pleased with how I did – probably one of my better times,” said Teresa Shulman, Wall.
“It was a great race – it was perfect weather for a summer race,” said her friend, Gretchen Mueller, Island Heights. “They let us in – we got here one minute before the close of registration!”
Bill Cicchino, Avon, also had a good time.
“I enjoyed it thoroughly. It was good – it was a lot more intimate than the Spring Lake 5,” he opined.
Even the previously injured turned out to support the squad.
“I’m recovering from a pretty bad injury – I had a pinched sciatic nerve,” said Lindsey Siegle, Ocean Township.
“This is my first race since high school. I made 40, but I don’t care,” he said as he eagerly approached the refreshment table, and then made his way to find his wife and children who also ran the race.
The all-volunteer Avon First Aid Squad has been a fixture in Avon since 1931, and depends on proceeds from the 5K – which is the largest fundraiser for the squad – and contributions to pay all of its operating expenses.
