Fratolillo Defends Title With Marathon Win

HOUGHS NECK - Thomas Fratolillo won the Houghs Neck Marathon for the third time Monday, defending his title in the remnants of a soaking nor'easter.

Fratolillo, who also won in 1984, set the course record last year but fought the wind and rain to finish in a slower, unofficial time of 14 minutes, 13 seconds.

The weather was milder than forecasters had feared, 52 degrees with a moderate rain at the start. The sun even came out halfway through but winds picked up as the runners passed Bernies for the last, long homestretch to the American Legion Post 380.

"From the waist down it was horrible," said Fratolillo. "My legs froze. It was the cold, my hamstrings and everything just started cramping up. Once the moves started, especially at Louies, thats when it got real tough. It was at that point I remembered some great advice from friends while training in Kenya last month. The Kenyans told me... when the lion is chasing the antelope, he doesn't look back. He has to eat. So when I run, I don't stare at my time."

A total of 38 runners registered for the race. Organizers worked through the night to line up shelters for those dropping out along the course.

Pumps have been stationed at low-lying areas in case of flooding. Ponchos were provided for workers assigned outdoors. Runners were warned by e-mail to wear appropriate clothing.

Near the start in the Manet, the usual carnival atmosphere was subdued. The Legion parking lot was nearly empty less than two hours before start time, with few hot dog stands and no lines at the portable restrooms. A vendor who ran out of ponchos Sunday was selling trash bags for $1 apiece.