Over 100 runners gathered on the grounds of Johnson Hall State Historic Site in Johnstown, NY on Saturday to take part in the 2016 Johnson Jog 5k run/walk.
Organized by the Friends of Johnson Hall in coordination with Johnson Hall State Historic Site, the City of Johnstown, and the Fulmont Roadrunners Club, entrants made their way through the streets of historic Johnstown and past several landmarks dating back to the 18th century. The event, now in its fifth year, helps raise funding to support the improvements and programs of Johnson Hall, the 18th century baronial estate of Sir William Johnson, the first baronet of New York, and hero of the Battle of Lake George.
City of Johnstown Mayor Michael Julius announced the beginning of the race, and got the runners ready with “on your mark”, then with the firing of a cannon provided by the 2nd Continental Artillery, the race began near the front lawn of Johnson Hall. The course took participants past historic structures such as the Drumm House, and St. John’s Church, culminating once again at Johnson Hall.
The overall winner of the race was Mark Stephenson of Esperance, NY, who completed the course in 18 minutes and 42 seconds. The first woman to cross the finish was Lynne Delesky of Caroga Lake, NY, good for eighth with a time of 23:34. The first boys finisher was Liam Vicosi, 15, of Fultonville, NY crossing the line in 21:43, for fifth place. The first girl to finish was Aliza Hopkins, 10, from Canajoharie with a time of 26:49, good for 23rd place.
The top five overall finishers were Stepehenson, followed by Adam Sleezer, Gloversville, NY, David Roy, Schoharie, NY, Trev Sweet, Johnstown, NY, and Viscosi.
A total of 103 runners completed the 5K course. People came from other states including Pennsylvania, Ohio, and South Carolina. Awards were handed out for the top three finishers in seven different age groups, and for the top three teams. Entertainment was provided by Acoustic Cactus.
Sponsors and contributors for the 5th annual Johnson Jog 5k Run/walk included; A&E Sportswear, CG Roxanne, Fage, Frontier Communications, Fulton-Montgomery Chamber of Commerce, City of Johnstown, Fulmont Roadrunners Club, 2nd Continental Artillery, Price Chopper, Rogers Orchards, Tryon Amateur Radio Club, Vintage Cafe, First Niagara Bank, Stewart’s Shops, Adirondack Septic Tank, Benjamin Moore & Co., Brown’s Collision, Creative Solutions by Harrison, Ferguson & Foss Land Surveyors, Frontier CAT Team, Henkles and McCoy, Holiday Inn of Johnstown, JAVAC, Letter Memorial Inc., Main Motorcar, Mangino Chevrolet, Microtel Inn and Suites, Midnight Detailing, NYS Park Police, Patriot Bank of Canajoharie, Road ID, Russo, Walsh, & Walsh, Steet Toyota, Thomas’ Hallmark, and Townsend Leather Co. Inc.
For more information about events at Johnson Hall, please visit them on their Facebook page.
