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Last week the Boilermaker gave out $4,000 in prize money to four finishers. Well it wasn’t prize money, it was four $1,000 scholarships but the high school seniors receiving them clearly belong on the winner’s podium.
The scholarship breakfast was attended by family, friends, and coaches of the respective finalists.
The highlight for me was the return of Kimberly Povec who was a member of our first scholarship class (2005). Kim spoke about the dramatic changes, both high and low, one would experience in college running and life after college.
My speech that I’ve given the last five years has essentially been the same. Running is not a ‘glamour sport’ that will reap you a professional contract. It’s a tough, singular, simple, sport that revolves around your ability to beat the clock. Your ‘ball field’ consists of a solitary road or trail that can offer sleet spitting in your face or a humidity-laden summer day.
The Boilermaker is in debt to Richard Hunt, former Superintendent of the Clinton School District, and the judges for their wise decisions.
It’s my belief that great running does not create a great person. However a great person might just become a great runner.
Congratulations to Adam Bankert of Clinton, Rebecca LaPorte of New Hartford, Even Smith of Holland Patent, and Andrea Szewczyk of Ilion.
Tim Reed is executive director of the annual Boilermaker 15K Road Race in Utica, N.Y.
