Lowe's 5K/Ray's Run

Two mainstays of the early-spring racing calendar, the Lowe's 5K and Ray's Run, attracted the usual slew of solid performances from the Gunkers. Lowe's, in late March, was a hot-spot for New Paltz runners, as Coach Mike Trunkes brought the SUNY team out for their first race of the spring. Mike's athletes took three of the top 5 places in the race, including overall winner Joe Gentsch in 16:58. Mike himself led the Gunkers with his third-place finish in 17:20 (first master). Mendy Taylor ran her first race since sustaining an injury last October, placing third for women in a credible 19:48. Welcome back Mendy! Brian Nagel ran a fine 20:25 to win the 50-59 age group, and Steve Schallenkamp placed third in the same category in 21:22. Complete results can be found here.

Steve co-directed Ray's Run for the umpteenth year, putting on another fine event by all accounts. Gunk participation was limited by volunteering the Boston Marathon, which was run the next day. However, the "exchange" program with the MHRRC that was championed by Steve over the winter paid off, as the Mid-Hudson Runners paid back the Gunkers for their fine showing at Ed Erichson with an excellent turnout. Among Gunkers, Pat Lopiano placed 16th overall, good for third in the 50-59 age group.