Howard Kestenbaum of Massapequa Park displays his Sands Point award.

Two hundred and ninety two runners and walkers crossed the finish line of the Aug. 9 Sands Point Sprint for the Feinstein Institute, and veteran endurance runner Howard Kestenbaum of Massapequa Park was among those going home with awards for their efforts. 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.

Kestenbaum crossed the finish line in 39 minute, 43 seconds, a pace of 12:48 per mile for the 3.107-mile distance that earned him third place in the 75-79 age group as well as the applause of his fellow athletes as he crossed the finish line.

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 netting a significant amount of money for the Feinstein Institute and the battle against lymphoma.

"I felt humbled by Howard's participation and that of all the other friends and contributors that 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!"