Soggy skies didn’t dampen spirits this morning at the 4th Annual North Fork Waiter Race, where a large group of waiters turned out in Greenport, trays and stemware in hand, dressed in uniform and ready to best the competition.
The race involves skill and a dose of competitive spirit, as competitors vied to walk as fast as possible from the Op Shop, to Claudio’s, and back, all the while balancing a stemmed wineglass filled with liquid on a serving tray.
But despite the large turnout, it was a clean sweep for Claudio’s Restaurant and Claudio’s Clam Bar, who took first, second and third places. First place winner was Edwin Salazar of Claudio’s Restaurant; second place winner was Elton McIntyre of Claudio’s Restaurant, and third place winner was James Mullane of Claudio’s Clam Bar;
The event, hosted by The Market, located at 44 Front Street, Greenport, was organized to celebrate the North Fork hospitality industry. And this year, it also honored Eastern Long Island Hospital’s 110th anniversary and the Fitness Challenge.
Participants were encouraged to raise funds and get sponsors in addition to their $50 entry fee. All funds raised were divided between Eastern Long Island Hospital, to benefit health and wellness activities, and the winners of the race.
The liquid contents of each glass were provided by beverage event sponsor Essentia Water.
“As the owner of a health food market since 1987, I believe we can all be our ‘best’ through good nutrition and regular exercise,” says The Market’s Shelley Scoggin. “The event is fun for both participants and spectators. We are very fortunate to have ELIH at the heart of our community, providing top-rated care.”
Paul Connor, president and CEO of ELIH, told SoutholdLOCAL after the race that Scoggin is “locally minded” and epitomizes the ideal partnership between the community, local businesses, and ELIH. “She has a long and terrific history in the village,” he said. “That’s the type of partnership,” he said, the village hopes to promote.
The Great Waiter Race event is based on a traditional race that began in Paris in 1904 to recognize the hospitality industry. The concept has grown in popularity since its early beginnings, with races held in over 750 cities worldwide.
