By Tyler Barth
So Superman, Wonder Woman, and Batman sign up for a marathon…
No joke. This is how competitors in the Superhero Half Marathon run. Unfortunately, because of the coronavirus outbreak, this spring’s event had to be called off. But organizer Chris Russo of Morristown was not to be dissuaded. He switched the race to virtual.
“It’s a great idea,” said James Pilchik of Ridgewood, the men’s winner. “It keeps the brand relevant until the time comes where we can participate in a regular road race again.”
Organized by Superhero Events, which also does the Halloween Half Marathon and the St. Patty’s 5K, the annual Superhero Half Marathon was called off in early April. Large gatherings were prohibited, to slow the spread of COVID-19.
Instead of scrapping the event, Russo opted to let competitors run the 13-mile route independently and post their times, abiding by the honor system. They had to submit their results by May 18, 2020.
“I am not really concerned about people sticking to the honor system,” said Jim Kessler of Kenilworth. “If people did not stick to the honor system and consciously entered an incorrect time, that is their issue.”
The top three men and women, listed below, will be mailed trophies.
“I would think most runners run to accept the challenge against themselves,” said Rose Medina of Bangor, PA, the women’s winner.
Russo said race registrations initially generated $10,000 for charity; he said the final total was $15,000.
The money has been distributed to four eateries tasked with feeding medical specialists fighting COVID-19 at Morristown Medical Center, Russo said. Millie’s Old World Meatballs and Pizza and Chef Fredy’s Table each received $5500, the Columbia Inn got $3000, and Morristown Bagels & Deli received $1000. All are in Morristown except for the Columbia Inn, which is in Montville.
While the virtual event was successful, garnering 650 participants, Russo said he’d like to return to a full race as soon as possible.
“There’s no substitute to the excitement of race day when you’re surrounded by other runners,” Russo said.
The race’s top three men and women finishers– Scout’s honor! — were:
1. James Pilchik, Ridgewood, 1:30.58
2. Dave Martin, Mendham, 1:31.20
3. Jim Kessler, Kenilworth, 1:35.56
1. Rose Medina, Bangor, PA, 1:43.13
2. Regan Trent, Chester, 1:50.21
3. Lori Della Valle, Fair Lawn, 1:51.49