Congratulations to Noni Degirmenci of Port Washington on her award-winning performance at the 28th Annual Carter, DeLuca, Farrell & Schmidt Ho Ho Ho Holiday 5K Run through the streets of Bethpage on Dec. 19.
Degirmenci crossed the finish line on the grounds of the John F. Kennedy Middle School in Bethpage in 19 minutes, 46 seconds, a 6:21-per-mile pace that was strong enough for her to finish as the second woman overall and first in the 40 to 44 age group.
A total of 1,225 runners and walkers completed the course, including a number of Santas, snowmen, elves and a group of happy reindeer. Lots of mother-daughter, mother-son, father-daughter and father-son duos made their way to the finish line, celebrating the holiday season at a family day of fitness. About 50 youngsters participated in the fun run that preceded the main event.
Proceeds of the run will once again be turned over to the Dominican Sisters in support of The Opening Word, an education program that gives poor and uneducated Long Island immigrant women the tools they need to become productive members of American society. Race participants donated more than a thousand toys to the John Theissen Foundation for distribution to needy Long Island children.
“Congratulations to Noni, and thanks to everyone who helped close out the 2015 Long Island racing year in style on Dec. 19,” said Race Director Ric DiVeglio. “We look forward to seeing all our Port Washington friends again at our 29th annual holiday excursion through the streets of Bethpage on Dec. 17, 2016.”
