11th Annual Hero 5K Race Report
The 11th Annual Hero 5K brought runners, walkers, and community members together on the campus of Bergen Community College in Paramus, NJ, for an unforgettable morning dedicated to supporting student veterans. The event provided an exceptional race experience while successfully raising vital funds for scholarships, resources, and career opportunities for those who have served in the military.
Participants could not have asked for better autumn conditions. The campus was swept with ideal fall weather, featuring crisp temperatures hovering comfortably in the 50s. The closed, volunteer-lined course offered a safe, energetic, and fast environment for athletes pushing for personal bests and families enjoying a morning stroll.
Germakian and Azzollini Top the Podiums
The 5K field featured strong performances across all age groups, but two athletes rose to the top to claim the overall titles:
Men's Champion: Philip Germakian dominated the men's division, blazing through the campus course to cross the finish line in a swift 18:14.
Women's Champion: Natalie Azzollini captured the women's crown with a stellar time of 24:54, an impressive performance that also earned her 18th place overall in the entire field.
A Community Effort for a Great Cause
Beyond the fierce competition at the front of the pack, the morning was filled with camaraderie. Action kicked off early with the opening of the Kids Village, followed by a lively pre-race warm-up and announcements. After the main 5K event, the energy continued with the Robert Dyer Kids 1K Fun Run, ensuring that athletes of all ages and abilities could participate in the day's mission.
The event wrapped up with a vibrant awards ceremony celebrating the top three overall male and female finishers, alongside top performers across several age groups spanning from under-14 to over-70.
Thanks to the dedicated volunteers, supportive sponsors, and passionate participants, the 11th Annual Hero 5K proved once again that the heart of this event beats strongest for our veterans.
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