Times Herald Record Article March
3, 2007
| Over dinner one evening in
October 2003, two local runners came up with
an idea for a race. Middletown's Kathleen Rifkin and Thompsonville
resident Myriam Loor had a vision: Together they would create a course,
solicit donations to cover costs and find a worthy cause for the race
proceeds. Loor already had the perfect course in mind -- a scenic 13.1-mile route in Rock Hill. A whiz with numbers and logistics, Rifkin had the ability to strategically place volunteers, water stops and food areas. As for choosing a worthy cause, Loor’s recent personal experience was the determining factor. She had just undergone the physical, emotional and financial worries of chemo-therapy for Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. The inspiration for naming the race came from a note Loor had received while in remission: "Myriam, celebrate life." Rifkin agreed without hesitation, and so, “The Celebrate Life Half Marathon” was born. It was, and still is, the only half marathon in Orange and Sullivan counties. The two-woman team immediately set out to work on the race. Rifkin and Loor went from business to business, seeking sponsorships. They called numerous places for award ceremony prizes and certificates. They contacted CROC (Citizens Reunited to Overcome Cancer). This grassroots organization is dedicated to raising money for the treatment and eradication of cancer. Since the race's inception in March 2004, CROC has been an integral part of the race’s success. "They provide between 16 and 20 volunteers every year to help with the race," says Rifkin. "We couldn't do it without them." The first race in 2004 raised $5,600; last year’s race proceeds soared to $10,500. Proceeds go directly to cancer patients who are struggling financially. "There's nothing worse than being faced with cancer and having to worry about money," says Loor. Together, Rifkin, Loor andmembers of CROC find those in most need of financial assistance, and those patients are given money to help with treatment costs and/or every-day living expenses. Anyone who registers for the race is giving to a worthy cause, but they are also getting a good course, food, prizes and volunteer support. Both Loor and Rifkin want people to come to the race, not only to give, but to enjoy. "There are two reasons why runners race," says Rifkin. "Some want a quality race in terms of the course and what it offers, and others want to race for a good cause. This race provides both." Some of the benefits runners will receive are a USATF certified 13.1-mile course and nearly 50 volunteers cheering along the way. Prizes valuing $40 or more will be given to 30 runners. Thirteen of those prizes will be noted on the mile markers along the course. If you see your name on a marker, you can claim your prize at the finish line. There is also breakfast at the start, lunch and the finish and babysitting in-between. It's a race that covers many bases and is there for everyone to enjoy. Walkers are welcome and have an early start. Runners who need extra time and who meet certain requirements can also start early. |