Marathon Returns to the Dutchess County Classic

by Chris Rechen

Hundreds of avid runners gathered at Dutchess Community College this past Sunday to compete in the 41st annual Dutchess County Classic. This year marked the first time since 2007 that the full marathon distance has been offered as an event, sparking a newfound excitement for the race. “There was a demand in the local running community, and almost 110 people are here just for the marathon,” says Justin Feldman, president of the Mid-Hudson Road Runners Club, who organizes the race.

The return of the 26.2-mile race wasn’t the only change to the Classic this year, as a brand-new course was mapped out for the 5k, half marathon and full marathon. “We were looking to grow the race, and we have the unique ability to do most of it on the rail trail,” says Feldman. The new course certainly helped expand the event, says Jennie Bunce, a marathoner from Connecticut. “It looked beautiful on the website, so here I am,” commented Bunce.

Even as the race has grown and changed, it has still retained its importance for the local community. Pete Colaizzo, a seven-time Dutchess County Classic veteran and the current head coach for the Marist track and field team, says it is one of his favorite road races. “It is so special because it is local, and it’s the most important race for the Mid-Hudson Road Runners because it is the only half or full marathon in the area. This is a great area for road racing, and I think it is cool that they have it in Dutchess,” Colaizzo says. The race is particularly special for Colaizzo, because many of his former cross country athletes, now Marist alumni, compete in the race. Additionally, a race put on by the local club allows for easy access, making the Classic a fan favorite as well. “There are these major marathons like New York City or Chicago that are very difficult to get into, but this is nice because anyone can sign up and test themselves,” Bunce says.

There has been no word yet on if the marathon distance will return in 2020, but its absence has certainly not slowed anyone down. Garrett Burger took home first place, finishing the course in a blazing 2 hours, 43 minutes and 34 seconds, which equates to an average mile pace of 6:15, and was good enough to beat the second-place finisher by over 30 minutes. Madeline Mercado was the first female finisher, coming in with a time of 3 hours, 42 minutes and 52 seconds, an average mile pace of 7:49. Other winners include Palmer Weimann in the half marathon and Mike Chow in the 5k.

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