Runners in St. Luke's Half-Marathon share a moment of silence before race
By Andrew Ritter, special to lehighvalleylive.com
In response to the carnage that ended this year’s Boston Marathon, St. Luke’s Half-Marathon began today with a moment of silence.
It was an emotionally poignant moment for many of the event’s athletes, some of whom participated in the Boston Marathon two weeks ago. Runners and attendees paid homage to the stalwart resilience of the city, wearing black ribbons, red socks and Boston Marathon 2013 shirts.
Susan Gill, of Perkiomenville, Pa., ran the St.Luke’s Half-Marathon today for the eighth time.
The attacks “probably did not change anyone’s mind today,” she said. “In fact, it probably brought out more people.”
Allentown native Jill Pescatore had crossed the finish line in Boston 10 minutes before the first explosion.
“We were close enough to hear it, see it, feel it, and not know what’s going on,” Pescatore said.
Her husband, Gerard, who was also present during the Boston attacks, was visibly moved by the observance for the Boston victims.
“That moment of silence at the start, I was caught off-guard,” he said. “I was crying.”
More than 4,200 runners registered for the event. A 5k race and 1.5-mile Family Fun Walk, also sponsored by St. Luke’s Hospital, was also held today.
St. Luke’s spokesman Mike Drabenstott said race organizers discussed with authorities increased security measures surrounding today’s event.
“We approached the Allentown Police Department a couple of days after Boston to increase the level of safety and make the runners feel comfortable,” he said. “APD recommended an increased presence, as well as support from the K-9 unit.”
Allentown police Capt. Dean Schwartz declined to provide details of the increased security measures.
“We wanted to have a safe event and make sure our officers were vigilant,” he said.
The security presence was obvious, but appreciated by the event’s participants.
Phillip Rector, who placed first overall in the 5k race, said he felt safe the entire race.
“I never felt I was in danger,” the Hellertown resident said.
For some, trepidations remained, said Mo Ordnung, whose cousin and uncle ran the half marathon.
“Right at the start, there was 4,000 people jam-packed onto (Linden Street),” she said. “It was frightening.”
Drabenstott said organizers never considered postponing or canceling the race.
“Runners are a heartier, inspirational group,” he said. “I think a lot of what you saw today was people coming out in support of Boston.”
When you’re looking at the smiles on the people coming across the finish line, it’s really a wholesome feeling,” Drabenstott said.