Melrose residents run well at Lynnfield 4th of July 5K

CHRISTIAN SANDBERG cruises to the finish line with the help of a couple racing experts leading the way. (Heather Dreher Photo)

By STEPHEN MARTELLUCCI

LYNNFIELD — The Lynnfield Athletic Association had its annual 4th of July 5K (3.1 miles) road race last week on a damp, humid day last Tuesday with 302 runners competing. This was the 56th edition of the event that was canceled due to Covid back in 2020 and 2021.

Seven Melrose residents participated in the race that was won by 18-year old Nathan Lopez at 16:52 while Patrick Walsh (21) placed second at 17:58.

The top finisher from Melrose was Christine Viola as the 31-year old placed fifth in the women’s division with a time of 22:56. She was 30th overall. 

“It was wet and sticky but I was happy that it wasn’t raining,” said Viola, who ran track at Melrose High. “This was my fastest time and I even surprised myself.’”

Viola has participated in three marathons and runs an average of 30 to 35 miles per week. She does around four or five 5k”s per year but this was her first time running the Lynnfield event.

“It was well organized and the crowd was very spirited,” said Viola, who also coaches winter and spring track at Winchester High. 

CHRISTINE VIOLA was the fastest Melrose runner at the Lynnfield Athletic Association’s 56th 4th of July 5K road race. Viola was 30th overall with a time of 22:56. (Courtesy Photo)

Christian Sandberg was the first male from Melrose to finish as the 45-year old had a 33rd overall place time of 23:13. 

Cynthai Berger captured 102nd as the 56-year old had a time of 27:15. 

Susan Coye (25) was 228th (34:58) while six-year old Stella Sandberg was 286th (42:38). 

Sandberg’s brother, Oscar, was right behind her at 42:40. 

Sabrina Sandberg was right behind as the 42-year old had a time of 42:43. 

“The rain held off until the end so we were able to finish the race, and hand out the medals and door prizes,” said Jen Briggs, who is one of the race coordinators. “There were 302 runners this year up from 247 in 2022. Despite the weather, we had a very successful day for the LAA. We want to thank our donors and the Lynnfield community for all their support.”