SCRANTON, LACKAWANNA COUNTY— A memorial race was held Saturday in Downtown Scranton in honor of Captain James R. Minicozzi, a local U.S. Army veteran.
Minicozzi was on the Board of Directors for La Festa Italiana and an active organizer in the annual race.
Proceeds raised from the event will go to benefit the Boys and Girls Club as well as college scholarships at West Scranton Highschool.
The event is in its 12th year and continues to grow each year.
"It brings a lot of the running community together. Its a great way to start the next day of La Festa. I've been part of the running community for many years its helped me just kind of get out and get back to the things I love," explained Michel Lipperini of Scranton.
"It keeps growing a little bit every year, and its great because my brothers friends now have been coming out and participating in the race and you get to hear a little bit of past stories and new ones being made in honor of his memory," stated Leslie Minicozzi-Gallaci, Race Director, Capt. Minicozzi's sister.
This year was a record turnout for the event with roughly 200 participants.