More than 500 people—runners, walkers, nature lovers, and cheering squads among them—turned out to enjoy the George Landis Arboretum’s Awesome August Perfecta Saturday.
Though the event included an Old Stone Fort Militia encampment and a guided walking tour, its centerpiece was the 5K walk/run through the Arboretum’s paths, woods, and collections.
Fifty-year-old Thomas Dalton of Schenectady put the youngsters to shame, crossing the finish line in 18:27; second was William Ports, 50, of also of Schenectady, 20:56; with Jonathon DiCesare, 11, of Cobleskill less than a minute behind him with a 21:09 time.
Alice Thomas, 45, of Westerlo, posted a 23:47 time to win for the women.
Second went to Andrea Fortman, 17, of Pattersonville, 24:16; and third for the women was another youngster, 13-year-old Alissia Alex of Pattersonville, 25:25.
Complete results can be found at www.areep.com.
According to Arboretum Executive Director Thom O’Connor, 137 racers crossed the finish line.
Not among them—he didn’t run—but there to send off the racers was Assemblyman Pete Lopez.
The event also included an open mic, but plans for George Steele’s after-dark campfire tales were cancelled because of high winds.

• • •

Next at the Arboretum will be the fall plant sale, 10-4, Saturday and Sunday, September 13-14.
There is no admission and parking is free. Rain or shine.
The sale will feature closeouts from several area consignors and possibly a few items that didn’t make it to the Arboretum’s hillside plantings this spring.
There will also be a used book sale featuring a wide variety of topics and a bake sale.
Plant donations are welcome and volunteers are needed.
Call 875-6935 for more information.