At the Boilermaker’s final committee meeting Wednesday, June 18th, awards were announced for the Peter J. DeStefano Volunteers of the Year and Les Diven Media Award. The Les Diven Award to a Media personality who has a unique connection not only to the community but to the Boilermaker Race. Les Diven was a long-time sports reporter for the Observer-Dispatch and the Daily Press. The Volunteers of the Year awards are named after Peter DeStefano, who worked the finish line for many years.

David Smith, of Townsquare Media, received the Les Diven award for his long-time coverage of the race. Since 1996, he’s been a key member of the Boilermaker Media Team, working behind the scenes to make sure everything runs smoothly. From his post inside the booth at the Finish Line, Smith directs radio operations. Smith has been with Townsquare Media for 30 years, and he is currently the Executive Producer of The Bill Keeler Morning Talk Show.

This year’s Volunteers of the Year were announced to be Mary Ruckel and Vincent Farone. Ruckel has been a part of the Boilermaker volunteer team for nearly four decades and currently serves as the start line director of the 5K presented by Utica National. “It’s that moment right before the race begins,” Ruckel shares, “when the national anthem is sung, the opening prayer is said, the flag waves in the breeze, and the police and fire personnel are standing by—it gives me chills. That’s when all the hard work feels completely worth it.” Farone, on the other hand, plays a vital behind-the-scenes role. Since 1995, Farone has managed the Medical Tent at the Post-Race Party. Initially, all medical operations were handled by Midstate EMS, with Vinny overseeing staff, ambulances, and supplies. Today, Oneida County manages the on-course medical response, while Vinny continues to lead operations.

Choosing who to award each year is a challenge, recounts Cindy Dardano, Boilermaker Volunteer Director. “Every one of our volunteers deserves recognition, which makes it truly difficult to single out just one or two individuals for the Volunteer of the Year Award,” says Dardano, “Our criteria are based not wholly on longevity. We look to individuals who display commitment, dedication, energy, and go that extra step above and beyond what is expected.” To learn more about volunteer opportunities within the Boilermaker, visit boilermaker.com or email cindy@boilermaker.com.

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