The ninth annual Officer Thomas J Giunta Memorial 5K took place on a chilly, windy April day squeezed between two storms featuring freezing rain and snow. This made the post-race comestibles and potables -- absolutely one of the very best spreads on the New England racing scene -- all the more welcome. There were 950 registrants but just 709 brave souls challenged the bitter, but clear (thank heavens) elements.

Leading the field to the wire was 24 year-old hometown boy, Jeff Reed, competing for the uniquely named Moose Milers & Marathoners. His 16:29 was a minute and 5 seconds ahead of runner-up, Joshua Berube, a teenager also from Fall River.

Giunta Race Winner Jeff Reed

Photo by Michael Amarello

Top female on this day was 37 year-old Joann Mathews of North Dartmouth, also a member of the triple 'M' organization. In winning her third race in three attempts in this burgeoning year of 2003, Mathews' 18:24 edged out masters rivals Marge Bellisle (18:33) and Madalena Boudreau (19:07). This was Boudreau's first loss in her hometown police race since the kickoff back in 1995. That's seven straight victories for the diminutive toughie, who is also a MM&M recruit.

One further note on that subject concerns MM&Mer Dave Ozug, who has also been in every race as a master. This year he truned 50, ran 18:08, and Pow! ran smack into Larry Olsen. Bad luck, Dave.

Copping the prize in the masters catagory with a 17:35 scamper was annual competitor Paul Poweell of the Commonwealth constabulary.

The NER would particularly like to express appreciation to Mrs. Doris Giunta, Tom's widow, who took over as race director this year, and deputy police chief Cathleen Moniz who, along with the entire staff, were of great assistance. And a particular thank you to a couple of 26 year veterans of the FRPD, Alan Beaysoleil and Douglas Morrow, for the finest job of foam dispensation ever experienced by this author.