Saratoga’s First Day 5K Kicks Off the New Year
SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY (NEWS10) — As some people spent New Year’s Day recovering from New Year’s Eve, others went to work, and some chose to lace up their running shoes and start the new year off and running!
A Family Tradition
Juliana Gabriel and her mom Kathy Zemianek from Vermont laced up their running shoes to participate in the First Day 5K. For them, it’s a family tradition that has been passed down through generations. "It’s just a norm for us," said Gabriel. "We like to…we’re a turkey trot family, we run every big holiday. We run on non-holidays."
A Tribute to a Loved One
Their familiarity with the sport is also a tribute to their late father, who was a three-season coach. "My dad was a big runner…He has passed away so it’s definitely a connection to him," added Zemianek.
Economic Benefits
It’s not just about shoes on the pavement, it’s also about cash in the registers. According to Todd Shimkus, President of the local chamber of commerce, who himself was a runner today, "Hopefully after this run, they’ll stay downtown and maybe go out for coffee or breakfast and brunch or lunch and have a good time and spend some money."
Champions and Metaphors
Every race has a champion, and Austin Turner was it. The Menands native said he felt he’d win despite burning the midnight oil until 2 AM. For Turner, running is a metaphor for the New Year. "We have some crazy runners in the capital region and I’ll probably never achieve that level but just coming out and pushing yourself to your goals," said the racing champion. "Running keeps you honest in that way."
Conclusion
The First Day 5K was a great way to kick off the new year for many in Saratoga. With its economic benefits and family traditions, it’s no wonder why this event is a staple in the community.
FAQs
Q: What is the First Day 5K?
A: The First Day 5K is an annual event held in Saratoga, NY, to kick off the new year.
Q: What is the purpose of the event?
A: The event is to promote physical activity, family bonding, and local economic growth.
Q: What is the significance of the event for the local community?
A: The event brings the community together, promotes local businesses, and generates revenue for the city.
