Solid results at Coogan's 5K

PPTC had a good showing at Coogan's Salsa, Blues, and Shamrocks 5K on Sunday. 40 members braved the hour-long trip and chilly conditions to complete the first NYRR Club Points Race of the year. The PPTC men finished 16th overall, led by Keith Williams (17:23); this should be good for 4th or 5th in the B Division, to be confirmed. Matt Strawn (19:23), Tom Greene (19:27), Coach Tony Watson (19:40), and Gary Wang (19:50) rounded out the team scoring.

Nicole Importico (21:19) was tops for the female team, which placed 15th. Also scoring were  Dominique Gagne (21:29), Susie Teal (21:48), Valarie Hing (23:31), and Yvetta Barner (23:35).

Nicole's time put her at 9th in the 35-39 age group. Rosa Nales took 2nd among females 75-79. Congratulations, ladies!

In the Masters (40+) division, Tom Greene and Coach Tony were joined by Tim Shields (21:08) to take 15th. On the women's side, Patty ChongTenn (24:13) scored with Valarie and Yvetta for 10th overall.

The Veterans (50+) men finished 10th, represented by Coach Tony, Tim Shields, and Ted Janger (23:07).

Full results are here.

This is a notoriously difficult course. The geography of upper Manhattan recalls the quick ups and downs of the Cyclone. (Note for next year: the hill after the turnaround is really long.) Fort Washington Avenue is narrow, often leaving runners - particularly those starting after the first two corrals - short of space to maneuver.

Those seeking PRs should mark their calendars for March 30. That day will see a twin bill of flat, fast 5Ks: on Roosevelt Island in the morning and in Red Hook at night.

The next NYRR Club Points Race is the Scotland Run 10K on Saturday, April 6. After today, attacking Harlem Hill should be a breeze.

How did you do? Leave a comment or send an email to pptcnewsletter@gmail.com.