October 8, 2005

HOBOKEN, NJ - The rainy weather in New Jersey on October 8 made the national news, as parts of the state got as much as eight and nine inches of rain.

It was a day that saw numerous cancellations of outdoor activities and along with the cancellations, diminished attendance at many of the events that weren't canceled.

One event that was held, despite the downpour, was the Healthy Neighbors 5K Race in Hoboken , NJ to benefit St. Mary's Hospital. Among the group of people scheduled to volunteer were members of the NJIT men's and women's cross country teams, performing their second community service project of the season.

The NJIT teams were there on Saturday, but many of the other people who had volunteered to work the race were not. The high absentee rate put extra responsibility on the shoulders of the volunteers who did show up and the NJIT contingent, partnering with Air Force ROTC members, helped save the day and the race.

The group not only marshaled the entire course but also handled the water stops. Through the pouring rain, the NJIT volunteers stood their stations and providing course direction, hydration and encouragement for the race participants.

Olympian Marcus O'Sullivan won the race by a lean and then thanked the NJIT crew for helping to make this event a reality despite adverse conditions.