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Hundreds of runners turn out for Run for Briggs 5K at Veterans Memorial Park: Photos

On a beautiful summer morning Saturday, hundreds of runners participated in the Run for Briggs 5K Run or Ruck and 1-Mile Fun Run.

A large American flag was hanging near the finish line from two firetrucks at Veterans Memorial Park in Calverton and more runners carried the flag with them throughout the race in memory of Tech. Sgt. Dashan Briggs, who died in 2018 while serving as a member of the Air Force in Iraq. The Riverhead native was 30.

His widow, Rebecca Briggs, said 473 people signed up for the race, which included a virtual component.

The race is part of the Suffolk County Veterans Run Series, which aims to “honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.” The Dashan J Briggs Memorial Foundation hosts the event and it is the first in-person race. Last year’s inaugural event was virtual only.

Money raised from the event will go toward student scholarships.

Ethan Goldman, 32, of Manorville was the top overall finisher in the 5K in 17 minutes, 42.18 seconds. Hayle Boyle, 30, of Oakdale was the top female finisher in 22:51.64.

Ms. Briggs said both her children competed. Jayden Briggs, 7, ran the 5K course in just under 36 minutes and Ava, 5, completed the fun run some of her friends.

See the full results here.

Photos by Bill Landon