Usually, airplanes are the ones making their way up and down the runway at Meriden Markham Airport. But on Sunday, runners traded places with the planes, all for a good cause.
Dozens of people braved the chilly morning temperatures for the fourth annual Run the Runway 5K and Kids Fun Run, raising money for local veterans organizations, including Disabled American Veterans and the Wallingford Veterans Coffee House.
“For those people who are coming out here today, first, second and third don’t matter,” said race director Derek DeStefano. “Because every step that these runners, walkers and joggers take make a difference.”
DeStefano went on to add that while today is a competition, it was less about who finished first.
“Running, veterans, it all goes hand-in-hand. We’re here to be better, promote our community and support one another,” DeStefano said. “If you’re out there, if you’re looking to better yourself, if you’re looking to get healthy, if you’re looking to stay positive, look at what running. Look at what fitness can do in your life.”
For runner Ethan Payne, the morning got off to a slightly late start.
“I showed up a little late, but it’s all good,” Payne said. “I ran a 27, but since I showed up three minutes late, I’m calling it a 24, and I’m really happy with that,” Payne said.
Payne was joined by Jorge Orozco. Both runners represent the Civil Air Patrol.
“Me and him were the ones that like are representing Civil Air Patrol today. So we ran. I had to wait for him halfway through, give him his bib, and then I, and then we both ran,” Orozco said. “He ended up surpassing me, but, I did a 38, which in my in my time is pretty good.”
While the race wasn’t all about finishing first, one runner managed to set a new course record, completing the 5K in 16 minutes and 9 seconds.
But beyond the competition, Sunday’s event was also about families making memories together.
Among the younger participants was eight year old Luke Williams, an aspiring meteorologist, who jumped at the opportunity to be on TV.
“What do you want to tell your parents?” I asked.
“Nothing,” Luke replied.
“You love us?” his father asked.
“Yeah.” Luke laughed.
He also said he didn’t mind the early morning chilly temps, and hoped to get a good workout in.
The Meriden Running Club hosted the race, working with the city of Meriden and Meriden Police to make sure runners could participate safely.
