Farmingdale endurance athlete John Kaufmann successfully completed the second annual Caumsett State Park 50 Kilometer run on March 7. Kaufmann finished in 48th place among the men who completed the 50K, with a time of six hours, 29 minutes, 58 seconds. The run was staged by the Greater Long Island Running Club under the direction of Vinny Croce.

The 91 starters began at three separate times to allow for all running paces. Runners were the "usual" locals as well as those from the general tri-state area and as far away as Vermont, Ohio and even a visitor from Australia. Many chose to do a smaller number of loops training run, perhaps for an upcoming marathon. Either way, everyone came around the 2.6 mile loop smiling as they were cheered on by volunteers and spectators. As they passed the Winter Mansion, they had their loop scored and they had an opportunity to grab a bite from the well-stocked aid station. These energy boosters, as well as the delicious food served at the post-race party, was provided by main sponsor Wild By Nature Market, a natural foods supermarket.

The paved loop took the runners through the many scenic sights of one of Long Island's most breathtaking parks. The race was more than just a successful running event. The run raised $1,200 to be donated to the "Kids Helping Kids" Fund to benefit 19-month-old Gina Marie DiMartino, who was born with ocular neurofibromatosis. She will need at least 10 costly surgeries over the next several years, with her most recent surgery involving the removal of her right eye. The goal of the fund is to help Gina and her family live as normal of a life as possible under these circumstances. It is entirely proper that the proceeds of one of Long Island's most important endurance events will be used to help give Gina and her family financial support for her enduring battle against the effects of this awful disease.

One very special new development this year - the run was selected by the Long Island Association of USA Track & Field as the association's 50 Kilometer Road Championship for 2004. It was the first time that the association has designated an ultra championship, as this local arm of USATF aims at giving increased support to ultras on Long Island.