Local runners turned out in force for the 4th annual edition of the Salomon Smith Barney Express 5 Kilometer Run, held in Eisenhower Park on Monday evening, Aug. 28, and local runners were especially prominent in the list of award winners.

Robis DeGirmenci of Syosset went out to a big early lead, with more than a 100 yard lead at the halfway point, and then held on to outlast a fast closing John DelMaestro of Woodbury. Robis crossed the finish line in 16 minutes, 35 seconds, five seconds ahead of John. Both Robis and John are members of the Greater Long Island Running Club, Long Island's largest running club.

Shari Mark of Massapequa Park was the second woman overall to cross the line, finishing in 18:58. Joe Basso of Hicksville was the sixth finisher overall and first in the 20-24 age group, in 17:30. Josh Smith of Woodbury took top honors in the 25-29 age group in 18:51. Laura Gluf of Massapequa took first place among the women in the 30-34 age group in 19:31. Sixteen-year-old Jennifer Campbell of Farmingdale led the women in the 15-19 age group in 19:51. Patty Zebersky of Farmingdale was the first female finisher in the 40-44 age group in 19:13. Anita Chen of Plainview finished first among the women in the Law Enforcement Division, crossing the line in 24:47.

The run was conducted by the Long Island Wheelchair Athletic Club, with the proceeds of the run going to LIWAC's Junior Program. Nick Katsounis and Joe Mendez served as the race directors, Ed Melnik of The Big Finish was the technical coordinator, and Mindy Davidson served as the coordinator of volunteers. Most of the volunteers were supplied by LIWAC, the Cruise Brothers Bicycle Club and the Greater Long Island Running Club.

The key sponsor of the run was Salomon Smith Barney, who continues to be a prime supporter of wheelchair athletics on Long Island. Other support was provided by Modell's and New Living Magazine. The Hicksville based Kozy Shack Puddings donated the puddings that were enjoyed by the runners and wheelchair athletes after they crossed the finish line.

The Express Run was part of the KeySpan Energy Grand Prix of Long Island road races conducted by Long Island Track & Field.

"All in all, it was a great evening for the local recreational sports community," observed Nick Katsounis. "Runners and wheelchair athletes working together for a common cause in our outstanding Nassau County facility at Eisenhower Park. Congratulations to all the runners and wheelchair athletes who contributed to the success of the event!"