Race Reports

The 2026 Kelly LaBare 5K brought 242 runners to Otsiningo Park in Binghamton for the 29th running of one of the Southern Tier’s most recognizable road races. Confluence Running Elite athlete Daniel Schaffer captured the overall victory in 15:22, returning a decade after winning the same race as an 18-year-old—and running three seconds faster in 2026. Elizabeth Predmore led the women in 18:16.

Beyond the winners, the results reveal some remarkable stories of longevity and improvement. Steve Esposito completed his 19th Kelly LaBare 5K and remains one of the area’s fastest runners, while John Salva ran faster at age 34 than he did on the same course a decade earlier. Andrew Cloke broke 16 minutes at age 41, Donnell Davis improved by exactly two minutes in one year, and Shelby Fisher continued a multi-year progression that has taken more than a minute off her time.

We dig into the 2026 Kelly LaBare 5K results, compare performances across previous years, highlight rising young runners, longtime competitors and age-group standouts, and look at the history that has made the Kelly LaBare 5K an important part of the Binghamton and Southern Tier running community.

Healthy Kids Running Series Week 3 in Binghamton

Week 3 of Healthy Kids Running Series in Binghamton brought Superhero Week fun to Otsiningo Park and another great day for local families. From capes and costumes to smiles at the finish, the event once again showed how youth running can build confidence, healthy habits, and community all at once.

Superhero Energy at Otsiningo Park

Healthy Kids Running Series continues to give children a place to compete, have fun, and enjoy the process of running in a positive environment. Week 3 added a playful Superhero Week theme that helped make the day even more memorable for runners, families, and volunteers.

Healthy Kids Running Series Kicks Off in Binghamton

The first day of Healthy Kids Running Series in Binghamton brought a wonderful afternoon to Otsiningo Park, a huge turnout of more than 100 kids, and the kind of community energy that makes this series so special. From first-time participants to returning runners who have been part of the program since its early years, Healthy Kids continues to build confidence, healthy habits, and fun for families across the Greater Binghamton area.

A Big Day for Youth Running

Volunteer support was outstanding, the atmosphere was positive from start to finish, and Kristy did a great job leading the event on the front end while Emily helped tremendously with the back-end logistics, timing, and results. One of the best moments of the day came when a young runner paused mid-race to pet a golden retriever, then happily continued on with a huge smile. It was a perfect reminder that Healthy Kids is about more than finish places. It is about joy, participation, and making running a positive experience for every child.

Lucas Sutton still holding strong upfront, number 185.

John Salva and Noah Fairly looking real comfortable right on his heels.

Vince Petrino and Mike Kent behind looking real great.

Mike’s had a great year so far.  Vince had a nice run at the Montrose, the 10000m and [10K] 4th of July.

A little far back here to see what's going on with the women's field but we'll find out in time.

Right around half a mile here.  Doesn't appear to be as robust of a field as it has been in past years but still a good time nonetheless.  The bunch of great local guys here grinding it out.