Fourth Annual Captain Chuck Cornett Navy Run

Originally called the Navy Run, the event was renamed after the 2004 death of Cornett, a former NAS Jax executive officer who founded the run. An avid runner, Cornett participated in 96 marathons, including the Boston and Marine Corps marathons. He was also a co-founder of the Florida Striders running club in 1978.

There were a number of walkers and runners wearing "The Cornett Squadron" t-shirts.

(From left) CNRSE Safety Officer Ron Williamson, NAS Jax Commanding Officer Capt. Jack Scorby Jr. and MWR Program Director John Bushick keep an eye on preliminary results as runners and walkers cross the finish line. Photo by Clark Pierce

Chuck Cornett's daughter, Sandi, was excited as the runners and walkers approached the start line. "This is such a great event thanks to the hard work of NAS Jax MWR (Morale, Welfare and Recreation) Department and the fantastic sponsors. It's also such an honor for our family. Right after my dad passed, they changed the name from Navy Run to the Captain Chuck Cornett Navy Run."

Cornett's grandson (and former Marine), Rob, expressed his appreciation for the event. "It makes us proud to be part of this community. This is going to be another memorable run for our family."

"We've got a great turnout and great weather today so it should be a really good event," said NAS Jax Fitness Director Tim McKinney, who coordinated the run. "This is a great opportunity for families and individuals to get out and be part of a wonderful fitness event and we couldn't have pulled it off without the help of all the volunteers."

Retired Army Sgt. Maj. Darryl Herren is a Clay County teacher who enjoys lacing up for a good run. Photo by Clark Pierce

The festivities began early as runners stretched, warmed up, and renewed acquaintances before the race.

After observing morning colors, NAS Jacksonville Commanding Officer Capt. Jack Scorby Jr. welcomed the runners, including members of the Cornett family. With the firing of the cannons by the NAS Jax Security Department, the runners were off.

First place finisher in the 10K run, with a time of 31:55, was Fredrik Swahn of Sweden who was visiting fellow runner and second place (34:24) finisher Paul McRae of Jacksonville. Third place (34:54) went to Evan Clay of Orange Park.

"It feels great to come in first this year. I had my good friend, Paul McRae, leading me for the first mile or so and then he told me to take the lead and I did," said Swahn.

Kim Pawelek of Jacksonville won the Open Women class and fourth overall with a time of 37:07. Second place (43:57) Open Women finisher was Barbara Carrico, with third place (44:03) going to Mary Thomas, both of Jacksonville.

As the start of the race drew near, participants assembled at the starting line for he fourth annual Captain Chuck Cornett 10k Run and 5k Walk at NAS Jacksonville April 4. Photo by MCSN Adam Thomas

"I love running this race and put it on my calendar every year. I have a key race coming up, so I like to use the Captain Cornett 10K to gauge my fitness level," said Pawelek, who recently participated in the Olympic trials.

The 5K Walk counted 46 finishers. First place went to Jacksonville's Jason Deese with a time of 26:46. He was followed by his wife, Melissa, at 27:18. Sage Beck (27:48) finished third.

The event was sponsored by ASICS, Metro PCS, VyStar Credit Union, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Defense Commissary Agency, NEX and Ronnie's Wings and Oyster Bar.

A Chevrolet Corvette pace car led the elite 10K runners around the course. Photo by MCSN Adam Thomas

(From left) At the start line, eventual 10K winner Fredrik Swahn (#359) checks out his elite competitors, including Kim Pawelek (#301), Evan Clay (#252) and Mike Cummings (#305). Photo by Clark Pierce