Hackett runs away from rest of Kelley Road Race field
New London — After quickly seizing the lead on Saturday morning, Everett Hackett never looked back.
No need for him to do so.
There was no competition in sight for most of the 11.6 miles of the 53rd John & Jessie Kelley Road Race that started and ended at Ocean Beach Park.
Hackett, a 25-year-old from West Hartford, stayed focused on his pace.
"I didn't know how far ahead I was, but it just wastes energy (to look back)," Hackett said.
Hackett cruised to his second victory in three years in the annual road race that honors the memory of John & Jessie Kelley. He finished in one hour, 54 seconds, easily beating runner-up Ben Bosworth, a Connecticut College cross country runner, who posted a 1:03.23. Nearly 600 runners turned out for the free event.
From the start, Hackett owned the field. He gradually stretched his lead, looking comfortable as he powered up the hills.
Returning back down Pequot Avenue, he had plenty of time to soak in the ocean views.
He managed to crack an occasional smile while battling heat and fatigue.
"Whenever I run this race, I try to run hard for the whole race," Hackett said. "And I try to run a good time, even if it's hot, which it usually is. I just took it out hard. ... I was surprised how decent I felt. It was hot."
Hackett prefers the front-runner's position as opposed to playing follow the leader.
He doesn't need anyone to push him.
"For me, it's easy when you're leading the race, because you have more incentive to try to win," Hackett said.
After crossing the finish line, Hackett walked back to cheer on his friends. He was one of several fellow Hall High School of West Hartford graduates competing. Hall boys' cross country coach Jeff Billing hosted a cookout for his runners after the race.
So the event serves as sort of a Hall runners reunion.
"This race is special," said Hackett, who missed the race last year and won in 59:36 in 2013.
Andrew Handfield, 19, of East Lyme was the top local finisher, placing seventh in 1:05.47.
The women's race also was a runaway.
Sybil Shapiro, a 37-year-old nurse from Clinton, won by a comfortable margin, finishing in 1:13.37 and placing 26th overall. Liz Hutchins, 21, of Pawcatuck was second in 1:18.22.
"I'm happy with the win," Shapiro said. "I'm very proud to be a New London County winner."
She fell in love with the race after running it for the first time two years ago when she placed second. A knee injury prevented her from competing last year.
"Great course and great people here," Shapiro said. "It's just really hot. But it's a tough day for everybody, right?"
The race was a success on several levels.
Race organizer Way Hedding was thrilled with the turnout, which exceeded his expectations considering the warm weather. He also was happy with the amount of food donations collected from runners. The items will go to the Gemma E. Moran United Way/Labor Food Center in New London.
"We filled a truckload," Hedding said. "Runners really opened their hearts up."
g.keefe@theday.com
Twitter: @GavinKeefe
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