TNBA hosts 8th annual triathlon

The Throggs Neck Benevolent Association is holding its eighth annual triathlon in memory of a man who was one of the organization’s guiding lights when it was founded in 1993 with the goal of helping neighbors in need.

The triathlon in memory of Tom Garvey will be held on Saturday, June 26. The race includes swimming, biking, and running. It culminates with a party for families on the campus of SUNY Maritime College.

The test of physical stamina and endurance is not for the timid, as it includes not only a 10K bike race from Clarence Avenue to Pelham Bay Park and then back to SUNY Maritime, but also a 5K run on the campus of the college. Registration for the race itself ends Thursday, June 16.

Family and friends are encouraged to come out to watch the start of the race at 8 a.m., when racers hit the water for a 1/6 mile swim at either the D.A. Beach Club at 665 Shore Road or the Manhem Club at 658 Clarence Avenue. The racers, which normally number about 50 including individuals and teams of racers, start at either club. Towards the end of the race, family and friends show their support on Maritime’s campus.

“Obviously, we are going to have a great triathlon, but perhaps more importantly this is a great time for families to come together,” said Karin O’Conner of the Throggs Neck Benevolent Association. “Tom Garvey was one of the founding members of the TNBA in 1993, and we celebrate his memory and the benevolent association with this race. Tom’s family is always at each triathlon.”

O’Conner said that there is a $20 fee for people who are not racing but want to join the festivities at the after-race party at Maritime College. She said that the funds raised are earmarked for the TNBA’s general fund. She expressed her thanks to Maritime College for allowing the triathlon on its scenic, waterfront campus and providing a grassy area to hold the party after the race.

“Maritime College graciously let us use part of their campus for the post-race party,” O’Conner said. “It is a way for Maritime to reach out to the community. It is such a great campus and it is always nice to see community members utilizing it.”

Garvey was an influential Throggs Neck businessman who owned the Throggs Neck Stadium, a catering hall that was a community fixture for many years. Among many charitable functions that the TNBA performs, including providing aid to the families of people stricken with illnesses such as cancer, the benevolent association also helps put together the Bronx St. Patrick’s Day Parade on East Tremont Avenue every March. The parade is held in conjunction with the Throggs Neck Parade Committee. The group also hosts the Thanksgiving Turkey Trot.

You can reach the TNBA at tnba@aol.com.