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.