Hundreds Turn Out For Marcie Mazzola Memorial Run/Walk: Event raises $23,000.
On Sunday, June 30, runners ranging in age from 6 to 88 took to the streets of Huntington for the 7th annual Marcie Mazzola Memorial 5K Run/Walk. According to Nancy Mazzola, Marcie’s stepmother, and President of the Marcie Mazzola Foundation, the race drew a whopping 500 registrants from across Long Island and beyond.
The event is a heartfelt tribute to the spirited 21-year-old who lost her life in a car accident in 2002. Since its inception in 2003, in keeping with its mission of helping children in need, the foundation has raised more than $500,000, Nancy said. The cause is such that familiar faces turn up for the race year after year.
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Fittingly it was a winning day for first two runners to cross the finish line, as both were from Commack, Marcie’s hometown. Justin Tampellini, 20, took first place with his time of 17:08. Michael Custance, 19, came in as a close second with his time of 17:18. Wil Widman, 48, of West Babylon, placed third with his time of 17:47.
In terms of female runners, Tara Farrell, 34, of East Quogue, was the first woman to cross the finish line. Her time was 19:09. Heather Williams, 37, of Centerport, who came in first last year, trailed behind Farrell by a mere 4 seconds. Jessica Panos, 23, of Bay Shore, came in third with a time of 19:55.
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The event raised $23,000, which will be used to provide Huntington YMCA summer camp scholarships to underprivileged children. The New York Organ Donor Network and Splashes of Hope will also benefit, Nancy indicated, adding that the race will return to its April slot in 2014.
To learn more about the foundation, visit www.marciemazzolafoundation.org. Race results can be viewed at http://www.start2finish.com.
