Former Spencerport runner sets course record in area 5K

Former Spencerport runner sets course record in area 5K

On Saturday, July 28, the Churchville-Chili cross country teams hosted the 2nd annual James B. Francis/Andrea Kofahl Memorial 5K race. The race, held at Black Creek Park, is in honor of two former Churchville athletes. Eighty-eight runners and dozens of volunteers showed up.

The race was won by former Spencerport runner Nick Lowe. His winning time of 16:44, on a challenging course, is a new course record. Jason Urckfitz was second in a time of 17:42 and Jeremy Cook was third overall with a time of 18:19.

The overall women's winner was Kendra Zaffuto in a time of 22:08. Gail Geiger, the first female Masters finisher, was second overall in a time of 22:34. Ashley Calarco was third in a time of 23:06. Tony Machulskis was the top Masters male finisher with a time of 20:36.

Many high school runners showed up for the race. Finishing in the top three in their age groups include Churchville and Spencerport runners Joey Carr, Billy Galetto, Casey Heimberger, Cyril Dunham, Mike Fox, Greg Selke and Eleanor Schmitt. Former Roberts Wesleyan cross country runners Matt Merrill, Josh Campbell and Pete Augrom finished first through third respectively in the 20 to 29 age group.

The teams raised several hundred dollars for the James B. Francis and Andrea Kofahl Scholarship funds. Each year at the Churchville-Chili athletic banquet, two awards are given out to Churchville student athletes who demonstrate sportsmanship, dedication and character as part of the Churchville running programs. These are just some of the traits that James and Andrea possessed as former cross country and track and field athletes at C-C.

Thanks were extended to sponsors, volunteers and runners who helped with the race. Special thanks go to the Francis family, the Kofahl family, the Glor family, the Churchville-Chili cross country teams, Joe Steinwachs, Bill Wood, Dave Bateman, Lamont Trophies, Rich Torch and the area businesses that donated food and door prizes.

Results and pictures from the race can be found at www.jamesfrancis5k.batemantech.com.