Awards

Every year, Rockland Road Runners recognizes members that rise above the rest. Our annual awards ceremony takes place at our January General Meeting.

The inaugural “Person of the Year” award winner was RRR’s first official coach, Walter Johnston. He was selected by a committee in 1986, and an annual tradition was born. In 1990, it was renamed the “Person of the Year – Don Cordisco Award”, named in honor and in memory of a well-loved and popular member of the club. Don was described as, “…an accomplished runner and triathlete, whose love for running was second only to his love for his family.” In 1998, the club officially dropped the “Person of the Year” title, because the award had evolved into a recognition of longtime contribution and service to the RRR, rather than just one year. Today, the “Don Cordisco Award” is the most prestigious award presented by the club, annually chosen by a committee of previous winners who are still active club members.

The most prestigious Rockland Road Runners (RRR) award is given to a person who the RRR Board of Directors believe exemplifies the spirit of the RRR and who has made long-time and significant contributions to the success and functioning of the RRR. Further this award is intended to recognize an individual RRR member that has been a steadfast supporter of the RRR purpose in all aspects, including running, philanthropy, volunteering at RRR events, exhibiting leadership and representing a positive image of the RRR.

The inaugural “Person of the Year” award winner was RRR’s first official coach, Walter Johnston. He was selected by a committee in 1986, and an annual tradition was born. In 1990, it was renamed the “Person of the Year – Don Cordisco Award”, named in honor and in memory of a well-loved and popular member of the club. Don was described as, “…an accomplished runner and triathlete, whose love for running was second only to his love for his family.” In 1998, the club officially dropped the “Person of the Year” title, because the award had evolved into a recognition of longtime contribution and service to the RRR, rather than just one year. Today, the “Don Cordisco Award” is the most prestigious award presented by the club, annually chosen by a committee of previous winners who are still active club members.

The Club Service Award is an award given at the discretion of the Board of Directors. It recognizes individuals in a leadership role who have demonstrated exceptional service to the Club, either by the longevity of their contributions, by stepping up when the club faced a particularly difficult challenge or by inspiring a vision for how the club can best serve its mission. The award was first given in 2021 to Gary Holland, for his exemplary leadership and steady hand on the tiller as Club President during the Pandemic Years of 2020-2021

In 1996, George Wodicka, also affectionately referred to as “the Guru of Rockland Lake”, was presented with a plaque which read, “For Continuing Inspiration and Motivation to All Runners”. The Runaround newsletter at the time said, “George delights in talking to new runners about running, and fueling their enthusiasm for the sport.” “George was a mentor to many RRR members, was our sport’s premier cheerleader, spokesman, and it’s most savvy observer.” The George Wodicka Inspiration Award was revived in 2001, and is presented to the club member who best exemplifies the qualities that inspire and motivate those around them to keep running, and persevere against all odds.

This award is selected by a committee of the club’s race directors and board members. It is presented to the club member who stands out by consistently exhibiting a strong commitment toward volunteering and working at club races and events throughout the year.

In 2008, the club added a new award, and presented it to two valuable members of Team RRR. These runners must take part in competitive NYRR races for Team RRR throughout the year and bring with them the team spirit, and competitive edge that makes them assets to our team.

This national achievement award recognizes long-term contributions of service to the club and the running community. To be eligible for this award, a member must have contributed at least 2000 hours of volunteer service to their club.