Topa Wins LP Chamber 5k

Taking advantage of the cool of the early morning, Tim Topa breezed to a time of 18 minutes, 44 seconds to finish first in the second annual Greater Lake Placid Chamber of Commerce 5k run/walk at DeVane Park on Saturday.

The 26-year-old Topa, who is a member of the Central Florida Striders running club, was pleased with his winning time.

"I'm satisfied with my time considering the terrain and hills that were a part of the course," said Topa. "The cool weather bothered me some during warm-ups, but after that I felt pretty comfortable."

Topa is planning on competing in this weekend's Gasparilla Race in Tampa.

"The Gasparilla Race is on pretty flat ground," said Topa. "There are a lot of talented runners competing in Tampa and I'm looking forward to seeing how I do."

The Lake Placid 5k attracted more than 100 participants and Peggy Sueppel, another member of the Central Florida Striders, was the overall women's winner with a time of 24:09.

"I'm really pleased with my time because it was a minute faster than I ran last year," said Sueppel. "The course was very challenging with the hills and the cool weather.

"I enjoy running because it's great exercise and it helps me keep my weight down."

Terry Engle was the Male Master's winner in a time of 22:02, while Jane Wickman was the Female Master's winner in 24:52.

The 5k run/walk is a major fundraiser for the Lake Placid Chamber of Commerce, which uses the proceeds for its daily operating expenses.

"We're very pleased with the turnout and support we receive from the community," said Eileen May, who is the CEO and President of Operations for the Lake Placid Chamber of Commerce.

"Lake Placid is a beautiful community with outstanding, caring people."

The Lake Placid Chamber of Commerce has several projects coming up, including administrative/professional day and a big bass fishing tournament on Lake June.

"We're very proud of our town," said May. "It's very special and a great place to live."