175 Participate in Highview Playground's 5k Run/Walk Fundraiser

A sunny day was the perfect backdrop for the 5k Run/Walk fundraiser for the Highview Playground project.

Held at Nanuet High School this past Sunday, June 5, there was also a kids Fun Run as well around the high school track. 175 adults and kids participated with many more that came out to support their friends and family in the run.

“It was a good turnout. Everyone came out for a good cause,” said Steve Sweeney, event coordinator and Nanuet teacher. “We had great help between Don Franchino (Fundraising Chair), Moria (Balseca) and the events committee, the volunteers, community members, teachers and students. A special thanks to Wally Miller and the band, Sheri Dempsey and so many others.”

There were several students on hand volunteering and Miller had the high school drum line amping up the crowd before the run and then welcoming back the runners.

“It’s a beautiful day,” said JD Roth, who was in the band. “It’s good for the runners, our cheering section.”

The run started at the high school by the tennis courts and the track. The route exited the high school parking lot and made a left onto Church Street. It then made a left at Highview Avenue, went past the site of the future playground, turned on Townline Road and then went up Silver Birch Lane. The runners then made a left onto East Alison, a right onto April Lane, left onto East Alison and followed that into Pelham Avenue. After a short run on Norwood, the runners were back on Church Street to get to the high school and one last lap around the track to finish.

“I came out for the park,” said Art Gunther, who finished first with a time of 15:35.33. “My son’s four and it was his favorite park.” He added that he, himself, used to play on the Highview playground that was there before the wooden castle one. “I’ve been running since I was in middle school.”

Charlie Miller, Nanuet student, finished second with a time of 19:22.11

“I’m still fit from track season,” he said, adding that the season ended just a few days ago on Friday.

“It feels good,” said Nanuet student Megan Young after finishing third with a time of 19:39.69

Maya Days was the National Anthem Singer that day.

“It’s awesome. It’s for a good cause,” said Days. “I’m always willing and happy to do that. I have a young son and it’s really a pleasure.”

A large American flag floated in the breeze and was held up by the Nanuet Fire Department’s fire truck.

“We always do community projects, so we’re here to support the community,” said Vinny Pacella of the Nanuet FD.

Glen Walsh jogged and pushed his daughter in a stroller in the 5K.

“I haven’t jogged in 10 years,” he said, adding that he also had never jogged with his daughter in a stroller before either. “She did great. Best seat in the house.”

Results of the race are attached to the article as a PDF.