A record 400 people participated in the 17th Los Gatos Resolution Run Sunday morning, looking to start the new year on the right foot.
Runner Lauri Takacsi-Nagy, who finished the 5-mile race in fourth place, saw the opportunity to race on Jan. 1 as a way to set goals for a healthy 2012.
“This is the first time I’ve actually gotten up on New Year’s Day and done something productive. I woke up before midday so I feel good about myself,” said Takacsi-Nagy.
The 8-kilometer course began with a loop around Los Gatos High School’s track, followed Los Gatos Creek Trail to Lexington Dam and finished back at the school.
Race Director Willie Harmatz, co-owner of in Los Gatos, has been working races like the Resolution Run for 35 years.
The former Los Gatos High School track and cross country coach said the event benefits athletes, average folk of all fitness levels and the school's athletic programs.
“It’s a good fundraiser for Los Gatos High School and it’s a good way to start the new year [when] people make resolutions,” he said.
All race proceeds benefit the Los Gatos Athletic Association.
The run's top-three finishers were Lenin Zapata, Miguel Vasquez and Hari Iyer, who completed the distance in 25:57, 27:23 and 27:25, respectively.
