Two-hundred-ninety-two runners and walkers crossed the finish line of the Aug. 9 Sands Point Sprint for the Feinstein Institute, and a trio of veteran runners from the local area were among those going home with awards. The athletes enjoyed a taste of every aspect of what is one of Nassau County's hidden treasures, on a challenging but fair run over what is one of the most eclectic 5 kilometer courses on Long Island.

The first finisher from New Hyde Park was David Frisone, who earned second place honors in the 60-64 Age Group with a finishing time of 23 minutes, 45 seconds. Other New Hyde Park athletes winning awards were David's wife, Maureen Frisone, who won the first place plaque in the women's 60-64 age group with a time of 27:36, and Susan Kueffner, who was second in that same women's 60-64 age group in 37:06.

The entire net proceeds of this year's Sprint are dedicated to the Feinstein Institute of North Shore-LIJ Health System and its Chronic Lymphatic Lymphoma research and treatment program. Special thanks go to Abe Bernstein of the Greater Long Island Running Club, in remission from Lymphoma, who was the heart and soul of this event. Thanks to Abe's financial support and his prodding of the Long Island running community, the event was a big success that netted a significant amount of money for the Feinstein Institute and the battle against Lymphoma.

"I felt humbled by all the friends and contributors who supported this worthy cause," noted Bernstein. "Because of their participation and contributions, they have made the race to eliminate the scourge of Lymphoma, by finding a cure in the very near future, a strong possibility. I as a lymphoma survivor salute them all!"

Thanks as well go to Nassau County Executive Tom Suozzi, to our good buddy Nassau County Parks Commissioner Jose Lopez, and to Sands Point Preserve Manager Gary Haglich and his staff for giving us the opportunity to continue the Club's ongoing series of running adventures through Sands Point. (Photos and information by Mike Polansky.)