Build-N-Athlete 5K & 10K Race 2025 – A Celebration of Fitness, Family, and Giving Back
By: Brad Loff | Sportzwire | June 1, 2025 | Photo courtesy BLSportsPhotography.com / Brad Loff
On June 1, 2025, the town of Peckville, Pennsylvania came alive with the sound of cheering spectators, pounding footsteps, and heartfelt encouragement. The annual Build-N-Athlete 5K and 10K brought together runners, families, and volunteers for a day of competition, camaraderie, and cause. Hosted at the Blakely Borough Complex, this event was more than just a race—it was a movement to uplift youth through sport.
A Race Day to Remember
Runners took off from the starting line at 8:30 AM, racing through scenic stretches of the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail, with families, friends, and volunteers lining the course. This year was especially significant as it marked the first-ever 10K hosted on this trail. The event also included a kids’ fun run and post-race celebration, creating a vibrant atmosphere for all ages.
🏅 5K Race Results – June 1, 2025
🏃 Overall Winners
1st Overall Male: Evan Babarsky (19, Jessup, PA) – 17:59
1st Overall Female: Jennifer Perry (44, Dalton, PA) – 19:52
🏆 Top Male Finishers by Age Group
Under 20: Evan Babarsky – 17:59
20–29: Johnny Rose – 22:10
30–39: Jordan Kozuch – 20:05
40–49: Pete Tripodi III – 18:07
60–69: Michael Wojnarski – 20:28
70+: Bill Fiore – 28:14
🏆 Top Female Finishers by Age Group
Under 20: Vella Byrne (12) – 23:05
20–29: Abigail Guziewicz – 21:35
30–39: Jen Tamblyn – 24:31
40–49: Jennifer Perry – 19:52
50–59: Joi Siebecker – 24:59
60+: Robin Adair – 32:51
🏅 10K Race Results – June 1, 2025
🏃 Overall Winners
1st Overall Male: Brendan Dwyer (44, Dalton, PA) – 38:57
1st Overall Female: Samantha Snead (36, Blakely, PA) – 42:35
🏆 Top Male Finishers by Age Group
Under 20: Seamus Sprague (15) – 1:01:58
30–39: Logan Nagle – 46:41
40–49: Brendan Dwyer – 38:57
60–69: Bob Paone – 53:23
70+: Neil Giacometti (69) – 1:05:59
🏆 Top Female Finishers by Age Group
30–39: Samantha Snead – 42:35
40–49: Christine Stroka – 46:22
50–59: Lynn King – 51:55
60+: Suzanne McGrath – 1:03:15
A Day of Family Fun: Basket Raffles and Games for Kids
After the finish line excitement, the event space transformed into a festive gathering filled with games for children, snacks, music, and one of the day’s biggest hits—basket raffles. Participants eagerly entered for a chance to win baskets packed with local treats, gift cards, and themed items. Kids enjoyed a variety of fun games while families relaxed and cheered each other on.
The day truly felt like a celebration—not just of fitness, but of togetherness and giving.
Spotlight on Build-N-Athlete’s Mission
Founded to make sports more accessible to underprivileged youth, Build-N-Athlete is reshaping what opportunity looks like for kids in Northeastern Pennsylvania.
Mission Statement
“We believe in the transformative power of sports to inspire, unite, and foster personal growth among young athletes. Our mission is dedicated to making sports more accessible and affordable for underprivileged children and families in NEPA and beyond.”
They implement a credit-based system that helps families access essential sports equipment based on their children’s needs. From cleats to helmets, they ensure that no child is left on the sidelines due to financial hardship.
In addition to gear, Build-N-Athlete offers mentorship, life coaching, and training support, building not only athletes, but confident, resilient young people.
What’s Next for Build-N-Athlete?
With eyes on the upcoming Fall 2025 sports season, the organization is working to outfit kids with gear by July. Their goal is to ensure every child starts their season with confidence and support.
Get Involved
🔗 buildnathlete.org – Learn more
💝 Donate to support youth
🤝 Volunteer at future events
🎽 Sponsor a child or program
The Build-N-Athlete 5K & 10K was more than medals and mile splits. It was proof that when we run together, cheer together, and give together, we build something lasting—a community that believes in its youth.
5K Results:
