Photos: Hundreds of superheroes converge at Hickories Park event

Hundreds of individuals dressed as superheroes gathered at Hickories Park in Owego, N.Y. on May 14 for the “Ryan’s Superhero Run,” which included a 5K run and a 1K run/walk. A family-friendly event, superheroes showed up to run and walk, or ride in wheelchairs and strollers.

The event was hosted near the Rebecca Weitsman Memorial Dog Park within Hickories Park, so several canine partners sporting superhero dog costumes joined the fun as well.

The event benefitted Kali’s Klubhouse at Fargnoli Farms located at 4041 Pennsylvania Ave. in Apalachin, N.Y., which provides equine-assisted learning to individuals with social, emotional and physical challenges.

The superhero star of the day was six-year old Ryan Woods. Ryan, who dressed as Batman last year, arrived dressed as Robin with his #1 bib this year, and was genuinely excited to participate and improve his time in the 1K. Ryan, who has cerebral palsy, benefits from weekly riding sessions at Fargnoli Farms which helps improve his strength and balance.

Michelle Woods, Ryan’s mother, commented while walking during the 1K, “The support from the community is amazing. And, there are people here today from as far away as Maine and New Hampshire.”

Other superhero stars were the miniature horses at Fargnoli Farms, including Kali, a celebrity in her own right, that are positive links in the healing process for many, including the senior outreach program. Kali is one of three minis at Fargnoli Farms that visits Riverview Manor in Owego and other local facilities several times throughout the year – giving seniors needed social interaction, and in turn teaches community service to the youth involved with the program.

Executive Director of Fargnoli Farms, Linda Fargnoli, previously shared that Kali’s Klubhouse was inspired by the ongoing love of the horses and the lives they touch. With as many as 20 volunteers at the farm, along with licensed and certified professionals, along with the horses as part of the team effort, the healing process happens with the passion and commitment of dedicated individuals.

Referring to Ryan’s Superhero Run, Fargnoli shared, “A lot of positive energy went into this event,” which included good thoughts to delay the anticipated rain. Fargnoli added, “I’m so thankful for the support of area businesses and the people from all over the community.”

Several businesses throughout the Southern Tier contributed prizes, food, and water for the event.

A significant contribution from the community came from the fourth grade class at Tioga Central Elementary School. Teacher Jenna Stedge explained that 2016 marks the fifth year that her students have been involved in raising money for local organizations. As a way to give back to the community and also raise fitness awareness this year, Stedge challenged her students to gather donations from family and friends, and then run in the 5K.

“My students exceeded the goal,” shared Stedge, “We ran Ryan’s Superhero Run to benefit Kali’s Klubhouse and presented a check in the amount of $3,187.14.”

Tioga Central Elementary School participants sported homemade superhero capes that included the sentiment, “It’s not about what you get, it’s about what you give,” a fitting tribute to the event.

Guests enjoyed multiple activities at the event, including face painting, the extraordinary juggling skills of local entertainer, Will Stafford, a special magic presentation, photo-ops inside a three-wheeled motorcycle, a.k.a. the Batmobile, and had an opportunity to win prizes, among other activities.

For information about Fargnoli Farms or Kali’s Klubhouse, find them on Facebook or visit kalisklubhouse.org. For other inquiries, including volunteer opportunities, contact Linda Fargnoli at (607) 427-3623.