Grandmother Inspired by Fitness Class to Run Marathons in All 50 State

"Grannie Annie" Inspired to Run Marathons in All 50 States
by Fitness Course at Rockland Community College

Next Personal Fitness class begins January 25

Suffern, NY - Although Ann Singer of Suffern, a 66-year-old "returning adult" graduate of Rockland Community College, recently reached her goal of running a marathon in all 50 states, she still made a 2010 New Year’s resolution:  "Not to act my age."

Singer, a grandmother who ran her first marathon at the age of 50, will never be accused of "acting her age." In 2008, at the age of 65, Singer crossed the finish line in Hawaii, having run 26.2 miles in 95 degree heat within the required 6.5 hours to complete her 50th marathon in all 50 states—making her what is known as a "50 Stater."

Singer credits Joe Famellette, RCC Professor of Physical Education, with inspiring her 50-state dream. "When I was in my 40s, I decided to attend RCC to earn a degree. I needed gym credits, so I enrolled in Joe Famellette’s 'Fitness for Life' program. When we ran laps in the gym, he would let us 'older ladies' leave the course to use the ladies’ room if necessary. None of the younger students were allowed this privilege. He made us feel so comfortable, that we felt like, ‘Hey, we can really do this!’" Singer earned her associate’s degree in 1982.

Singer has completed 70 marathons since turning 50, her most recent being the New York Marathon in November. She faithfully walks four to seven miles a day, regardless of how cold it gets. She also trains with her four-year-old granddaughter, Emma, pushing her in a stroller up and down the streets of Suffern, proudly calling herself "Grannie Annie." In her most recent race, the 5K "Santa Claus Run" in the Town of Orangetown, Singer ran with bells on her sneakers.

Any high school graduate can enroll in Famellette’s 1-credit course, Personal Fitness (PED 118). The next course is offered Spring Semester, with the first class beginning January 25. Spring Semester runs from January 23 - May 14 (registration deadline: January 29). Credit courses are open to those requiring credits or those interested in personal enrichment.

For more information, call or visit Admissions at 845-574-4224, Technology Center, Suffern campus, on Mon, Thurs, 8 a.m. – 7 p.m.; Tue, Wed, Fri, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.; or visit: www.sunyrockland.edu

Stay informed: sign up for RCC's free monthly e-newsletter of events by visiting www.sunyrockland.edu and clicking into the "Sign up for events newsletter" button on the lower right.

Suffern campus map: http://www.sunyrockland.edu/about/campus-guide/map

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Rockland Community College, a unit of the State University of New York, is located 25 miles northwest of NYC. The majority of its students transfer to four-year colleges, and many find immediate employment upon earning their associate's degree or certificate. The College also offers others, from preschoolers to senior citizens, the opportunity to simply learn something new. Quality education...at a price you can afford.