Honesdale's Novobilski and Dahlgren capture crowns at 37th Annual Perkins Run

DYBERRY TWP. — Nearly 100 runners of all ages and abilities gathered on the banks of the Dyberry Creek this past weekend to participate in one of the area’s most highly-anticipated summer races.

After a week dominated by thunderstorms and oppressive humidity, the skies finally cleared Saturday morning just in time for the 2023 Dr. William Perkins Memorial 5K.

This year marked the 37th anniversary of the event, which is held every July at the Wayne County Fairgrounds.

Longtime race director and Honesdale cross country coach Lindsey Pender once again oversaw the festivities, which also includes a one mile race and quarter mile Fun Run for the little guys.

“The 37th Annual Perkins events were a huge success!” she exclaimed. “I am truly blessed to coach this team and to live in this community.

“Honesdale businesses stepped up and showed us love. We could not do it without their support. This is our biggest fundraiser of the year and it helps make our whole season possible.”

Hornet cross country standouts Logan Novobilski and Brenna Dahlgren copped top honors in the day’s marquee event. Novobilski finished first overall in the 5K, while Dahlgren won the women’s division and placed fourth in the standings.

“Brenna and Logan set us up for an exiting season this year,” Coach Pender said. “It was also great to see the many young runners and those in strollers running with mom and dad. They’re our future athletes who will be part of this cross country family in years to come.”

On the podium

All told a total of 87 runners took part in the 5K and another 16 in the mile.

Novobilski dominated the feature event, rocketing to first place in the overall standings.

A senior at Honesdale High School who stars in both track and cross country, Novobilski jetted out to an early lead and never looked back. He crossed the finish line in a time of 16:39, good for a 26-second cushion over his closest pursuer.

“Logan had an amazing run today,” Coach Pender said. “He went out and was patient, then took control and looked super strong coming in.”

For his part, Novobilski is just embarking on a rigorous course of summer training. He’s building a solid foundation in anticipation of an exciting fall season with the Hornets.

“This race was really a good rust-buster and a small test for a big cross country season to come,” Logan said. “I’m pretty happy with how I ran considering how hot and humid it was.”

Eric Lukan powered his way to a runner-up finish, clocking in at 17:04. Also cracking the top five among the men were: Luke Murray (18:46), Truan Dahlgren (19:30), Patrick Blaskiewicz (20:29) and Jonah Legg (20:38).

Meanwhile, Dahlgren was every bit as dominant on the women’s side of the bracket Saturday morning.

Another member of Honesdale’s talented senior class, she bided her time early in the race, then made a decisive move. Dahlgren not only finished first in her class but wound up fourth overall in a time of 19:01.

“I was super-excited going into this race because I feel that it is a great season opener and a great way to see where my summer training has brought me so far,” Brenna said.

“I was also super-excited to see our team come together before our season opens up in August. As for me, I’m thrilled with the results. To win this race the summer before my senior year is an amazing feeling.”

Megan Kretschmer earned runner-up honors, stopping the clock at 22:32. Rounding out the front five were: Marykate Grady (22:44), Olivia Pinto (24:15), Katie Parsons (24:17).

Summer slate continues

The Perkins Race marks the third local distance running of the local summer scene.

First up was the Firecracker 5K, centerpiece of the Pleasant Mount Independence Day celebration. Then came the Penny House 5K, held to benefit the Lake Ariel Volunteer Fire Department.

Next on the agenda is the 2023 Habitat for Humanity “Run for the Roses.” This year’s edition of the event will once again be held at the Daniel J. O’Neill Sports Complex in Honesdale on Saturday, August 26.

The Wayne County YMCA will also be hosting its annual race, the “Run to the Music.” This summer’s 5K is slated for Saturday, September 9 at Dorflinger.

Finally, the Hawley Public Library gets into the act on Saturday, October 8 with this year’s “Read to Run 5K.” The event will be held at Bingham Park.

This article originally appeared on Tri-County Independent: Hornet harriers dominate at the 37th Annual Perkins Run