We began the day with our traditional 2 mile race which takes place on the 1 mile loop that is home of the Self-Transcendance 6 and 10 day races.
Cathy Oerter, Co-Founder of Art of the Olympians, presented the awards to the women.
Ray Lumpp, Olympic gold medalist in basketall (1948) presented the awards to the men.
Our singers performed a number of songs including one Sri Chinmoy composed especially for the Heart-Garden.
Guests enjoying the glorious day.
Salil Wilson, Peace Run Executive Director, shared some of our recent experiences as we've carried the torch to over 100 countries this year.
Next we embarked on a silent walk along one of the park streets named in honor of Sri Chinmoy. Olympic gold medalist Diane Dixon is holding the torch.
Ranjana Ghose, curator of Jharna Kala Foundation, Sri Chinmoy's Works of Art, read out a message from the President of Costa Rica which said in part, "The life of Sri Chinmoy offers us a golden example of selfless service for the creation of peace and for the good of humanity."
Jim Gennaro, former New York City Council member, introduced Rory Lanceman, current New York City Council member.
New York City Councilman Rory Lancman reflected upon Sri Chinmoy by saying, "What greater legacy could there be than a person who leaves goodness, happiness and harmony and that message continues to not just survive but to grow."
Cathy Oerter holds the torch.
Cindy Stinger, President of Alumni, USA Olympic Committee holds the torch with Abhejali from Czech Republic.
Eliott Denman a 50 km Race Walking Olympian was also on hand.
Mr. Bemmy Siahaam, Indonesia Consul for Social and Cultural Affairs and Vice Consul very kindly came and offered us words of encouragement.
Some of the Peace Run team made their way to the Al Oerter Recreation center by running through beautiful Flushing Meadows Corona Park.
At the unisphere.
Photographer Bhashwar Hart runs a few steps with the torch.
Outside the Al Oerter Recreation Center.
Cathy Oerter offically opens the Al Oerter display at the Al Oerter Recreation Center. Nancy Barthold, Assistant Commissioner, NYC Parks and Recreation, shared with us some of the fascinating background as the the esablishment of the center.
Cathy and Ray Lumpp.
Cathy and Cindy Stinger.
Jim Gennaro and Cathy.
Arpan proudly shows his membership to the Al Oerter Recreation Center.
