Diaz Takes On Suffolk Half-Marathon Challenge

Shari Diaz will head out on her fourth half-marathon on Sunday, Sept. 13, one of thousands of runners expected to compete in Suffolk County’s inaugural full and half marathons.

The 31-year-old from Hempstead is training for her first New York City Marathon November. She also completed triathlons is is practicing for other races this season.

“I wanted to do the Suffolk Half because the LI running scene doesn’t get the attention it deserves,” she said. “LI runners normally end up trekking into the city to do marathons and races in Central Park, Prospect Park, etc. As beautiful and scenic as LI is, it’s refreshing to be able to run races in your own backyard. Nothing beats running a great race and not having to cross a bridge or tunnel to do so! And hopefully races like this will become more popular and happen more frequently so that city runners will want to flock to LI to see what we have to offer for those who love the sport of running.”

The marathon and half marathon are part of Suffolk County’s new ‘Healthy Suffolk’campaign – a region-wide initiative designed to encourage and assist residents live healthy and active lives. The races will also benefit veterans’ causes.

“The Suffolk County marathon is a mechanism to highlight the incredible communities, natural resources and businesses we have here in Suffolk County,” said County Executive Steve Bellone. “Suffolk County is a world renowned destination. From the Hamptons to our wine country to our amazing downtowns and world class beaches, we are a destination for tourism, businesses, recreation, and living. Our marathon will give us an opportunity to showcase all of that.”

The marathon has a distinctly planned route that was designed to showcase and drive tourism towards downtowns along the Great South Bay.

The race, which is a Boston Marathon qualifier, will begin and end at Heckscher State Park in East Islip with a Taste of Long Island wine and food festival to end race festivities. Suffolk County has partnered with New York State for race coordination and planning.

To learn more about the Suffolk marathon or to register, visit http://www.suffolkmarathon.com or http://facebook.com/stevebellone