Honor Boilermaker Race Anniversary

Senate Resolution No. 1465 BY: Senator GRIFFO COMMEMORATING the 40th Anniversary of The Boilermaker 15K Road Race WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body that the quality of the citizens of the State of New York is greatly enriched by its exceptional cultural, educational and recreational institutions and events; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to commemorate the 40th Anniversary of The Boilermaker 15K Road Race to be celebrated on Sunday, July 9, 2017; and WHEREAS, The Boilermaker 15K Road Race was established in 1978 by Earle C. Reed as a way to give back to the community that had supported his family's business, Utica Radiator; and WHEREAS, After convincing company President, Bob Reed and Treasurer, Jim Benson to underwrite a new local long distance road race, the first Boilermaker 15K Road Race was run on July 16, 1978; and WHEREAS, Considered by many to be the best 15K race in the United States, The Boilermaker attracts athletes and fans from all over the world; at its inception, the race began with 876 runners and has grown to over 18,000 competitors; and WHEREAS, The Boilermaker has been led by several people including Earle Reed from 1978-2000, Bob Ingalls from 2001-2007, and the current Race Director, Jim Stasaitis since 2008; and WHEREAS, Today, The Boilermaker has grown to include special events such as a 5K race, a Three Mile Walk, a Kids' Run, Youth Olympics, a Health and Wellness Expo, and more; and WHEREAS, The Boilermaker Weekend promotes a healthy lifestyle with a focus on fun, family and community spirit; and WHEREAS, This auspicious occasion presents a unique opportunity for this Legislative Body to recognize and pay tribute to The Boilermaker 15K Road Race; and WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that when organizations and events of such noble aims and accomplishments, and which serve to bring people together for such glorious purposes, are brought to our attention, they should be recognized by all the citizens of this great Empire State; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to commemorate the 40th Anniversary of The Boilermaker 15K Road Race; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to Jim Stasaitis, Race Director, The Boilermaker 15K Road Race.