11/27/2025
For the first time in 65 years, we began the Schuylkill Navy Run without Fred Duling beside us…in body. But his presence was unmistakable. His daughter Sara and his grandchildren issued the “Go!” command at the start with grace and joy, and his son-in-law Sandor honored 6+ decades of sportsmanship (the longest streak in the world for running the same race consecutively) by taking his familiar place behind Fred’s chair. The empty wheelchair at the line said everything-and so did the energy around it.
We were also blessed to have the Saint Clair family with us, as Kevin’s spirit also lifted the morning with the energy he brought to every race and life itself.
The day was filled with the kind of moments that remind you why this river, this community, and this tradition endure:
• Clete Graham completing his 36th consecutive run and earning the Dave Krmpotich Oldest Male Runner award.
• bringing home the Hines High School Boys Trophy and Junior Club Award (for Gillin BC) for the very first time.
• reclaiming their title as top Girls High School-and alums helping Malta secure their first Women’s Team Points Trophy. Think about that for a moment :-) Answer: Since rows from #9, their official SN club is Malta!).
Deep gratitude to our loyal sponsors-Toyota TriSate Dealers, , and Cantrill Clark—for making so much possible, to every volunteer who shows up year after year, to Malta Boat Club and .rowing for again sharing your homes, and to for officially joining our Thanksgiving family.
A river, a tradition, a community-and the spirits who keep guiding us forward. 🧡🏃♂️🦃
