Even a snow day the day before wasn’t stopping 228 runners and walkers from participating in this year's Heritage 5K. In fact, it was the best turnout in its 8 year lifespan. This year's theme of a “Turkey Trot” went off without a hitch and the long sleeve turkey themed t-shirts participants received were “gobbled up” at the registration tables. 

At 9am sharp, Heritage teacher Mike Olsen gave the runners one last pep talk at the starting line and sent them off in pursuit of who will be the next Heritage Champion. The answer came back sixteen minutes and six seconds later as NECSD senior Devin Batelic crossed the finish line to take home the “Turkey Trophy” and a freshly baked pumpkin pie donated from Heritage Home and Career Skills teacher Mrs. Demetres’ class. 

Batelic stated, “I knew I would have to overcome the cold and pain in my lungs from the stinging air.  I’m not going to lie, I had to work hard to maintain my poise and confidence.  It’s great to see so many younger runners and older runners come together for this great 5K."

“The amount of volunteers and support for this year's race was incredible,” said race co-director Chris Marino. Mr. Marino continued, “The New Windsor Police Department was so supportive and the Heritage PTO knocked it out of the park. Kids came back to run that graduated from Heritage years ago.  That’s really cool.  I can’t wait for next year.” 

The Heritage National Junior Honor Society members lined the newly paved HMS driveway pointing runners in the right direction and handed out medals to the top 50 finishers. Parents stood on every corner of the race course, sometimes four deep, to help with traffic, encourage runners, and even take a few pictures of their favorite “turkeys” running by.

Top female finisher, and current Heritage 8th grader Izzy Blanco stated  

“It was great. The shirts are cool, the DJ was good, and a lot of people showed up. My friend Allie came back from college to pace me and we had a good time running. It was great to beat Mr. Marino too”.

It was a great community event as 48 local businesses sponsored the race. The School’s PTO plans on doing another Turkey Trot next year. 

Story provided by Coach Mr. Marino. 

OFFICIAL RESULTS | Heritage Turkey Trot 5K

PHOTOS | Snow Won’t Stop the 8th Annual Heritage 5K

Additional Photos provided by Ms. Janet Williamson and Mr. Marino