The following club members were recognized for their achievements on 3/14/24:
Anthony Swierzbinski – 2023 Runner of the Year
Anthony’s start in running came as a middle schooler, following in his older brother’s footsteps. Since getting started he’s never stopped. Over the years Anthony has become a student and super fan of the sport. His dedication and commitment to the sport he loves has resulted in many running successes from the mile to the marathon.
Anthony has represented Pike Creek at numerous events in the USATF Mid Atlantic Grand Prix series over the years. In 2023, he competed in seven of the Grand Prix races, finishing 11th overall in the standings. At the age of 37 he added two PRs to his resume (4:49 in the mile, and 27:08 in the 8K) – making that 10 PRs in the last 3 years! However, Anthony says the running highlight of 2023 was winning airline tickets as the champion of a local 5k this past fall. It’s only fitting that the airline tickets were used to travel to Orlando, FL to spectate the 2024 Olympic Marathon Trials.
Anthony also shares his passion for running as a middle school track and XC coach at Dickinson MYP School, where he teaches middle school social studies. Wanting to provide his students with the same running opportunities that inspired his running career, he started the track and xc programs there 7 years ago. During those 7 years he has developed one of the most competitive middle school running programs in the state with multiple individual and team titles. But most importantly, he has inspired many young runners and has helped them find joy in running.
Anthony wins First State Half 3/23/24:
Mike Piorkowski – 2023 Member of the Year
In the realm of running, there exists a figure whose dedication and passion have touched the lives of countless individuals. His name is Mike, affectionately known as the “Mayor” of running, a title he has rightfully earned through years of tireless devotion to the sport. Since I first met Mike, his enthusiasm for running has been infectious, inspiring scores of newcomers to lace up their shoes and hit the pavement. As a former XC/Track Coach and Board Member of the Wyoming Valley Striders, Mike’s wife Marjorie can attest that he “has an unwavering commitment to fostering a love for running within our community.”
Throughout the past year, Mike’s boundless energy and zest for life have propelled us through an impressive array of events ranging from running and biking to triathlons. For Mike, these events aren’t just races; they’re opportunities to embrace the joy of movement and celebrate the thrill of competition.
For his unwavering dedication to the sport of running and his profound influence on those around him, it is my distinct honor to nominate Mike for the prestigious Member of the Year Award. In a world where every step forward is a victory, Mike exemplifies the spirit of perseverance, camaraderie, and hope that defines our running community.
Jean Western – 2023 Rookie of the Year
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Mike Janis – 2023 Most Improved Runner
Mike Janis has had an incredible 2023, earning him the title of Most Improved Runner of the Year! Starting his running journey later in life, Mike, a dedicated fitness instructor, proved that hard work and perseverance pay off.
Over the past year, he shattered seven personal records, racing everywhere from Boston to Raleigh and making unforgettable memories with family and friends. With the guidance of his coach, Alison McCann, Mike embraced the mindset that “not every race has to be a PR”—but that didn’t stop him from delivering some of his best performances yet! From an impressive 3:05 at the Boston Marathon to a blazing 5:22 mile, he showed what dedication can achieve. As he sets his sights on crushing 2024, one thing is certain: Mike Janis is just getting started!
Mark Hannagan – 2023 Volunteer of the Year
Mark Deshon – Hall of Fame Induction
Mark has been an active member of PCVRC since the mid-1980s when he contributed his design skills towards DDC posters and shirts, our [hard copy] monthly newsletter and later, our website. He has been recognized with our Volunteer of the Year award has garnered 48 age-group first-place finishes over the years.
See Mark’s page
Rich Szymanski – Hall of Fame Induction
Rich has been a club member since the early 2000s and for several years held the position of our USATF team coordinator.
He recruited for the team and club, as well as arranging carpools to make it easier for members to participate, providing exceptional motivation to all involved. In fact his wedding to fellow club member Trish happened at Delcastle Recreation Area during a group run!
