The first Iron Horse 5K, a run/walk in support of the Second Company Governor's Horse Guard (2GHG), took place on the cool Saturday, September 24 morning. Runners of a variety of ages enjoyed the scenic 3.1-mile course on the 2GHG grounds at Fairfield Hills.Fast Track Timing webpage.

Runners went through open field space and on dirt trails through the woods on a course that featured some hills. Some of the participants said they were surprised to see how much space was behind the 2GHG facilities.

"It was beautiful. I never knew all of this was back here," said Shelton's George Buchanan, 58, who was the race winner, completing the run in a time of 21:43.

"It felt good," said Buchanan, adding that he is getting back into running following an injury. "To come back and win something, I'm happy."

Sandy Hook's Kevin Silber, 28, was runner-up in 22:27. Silber, like Buchanan, said he was pleasantly surprised by how much open space there was, and enjoyed learning a little something more about his home town.

"It was nice, very scenic - it was great," Silber said.

Sandy Hook's David McCraigh, 38, placed third in 24:05; Newtown's Chris Capozziello, 50, came in fourth in 25:38; and Newtown's Bruce Goulart, 66, was fifth in a time of 25:50.

Rounding out the top ten were Stratford's James Cavaliere, 42 (27:06); Newtown's Scott Marcum, 46 (27:11), Sandy Hook's Steve Landau, 46 (29:39); Trumbull's Jason Roberts, 37 (29:46); and Newtown's Andy Engels, 50 (30:51).

Oxford's Lisa Shamaly, 48, was the top female, and placed 11th in 31:19.

"It's amazing. It's my first trail run and it was fun. I'll definitely be back," Shamaly said.

Among the top 15 finishers were Newtown's Bill Furrier, 55, who was 12th in a time of 31:26, and Tracy Van Buskirk, 59, who was 15th in 31:56.

Horse Guard troopers cheered on the runners and handed out bottles of water at the finish line.

"I think it's an incredible inaugural event, getting 5K runners out here on these trails," said State Representative Mitch Bolinsky, who was on hand to support the event. "It's a totally special 5K because it's not a road race - it's being one with nature which is what the Horse Guard is all about."

Horse Guard First Lieutenant Ken Fay noted that the weather was perfect for a race, and was thrilled about the success of the new event.

"It's a great opportunity to come together and do something completely different on our grounds, and a day for people to enjoy the nature around them," Fay said. "We're grateful and appreciative of all the support we received for this race and we're looking forward to making this bigger and better every year."

For complete race results, visit the