Northeast College Provides Free Chiropractic Care at 2025 IRONMAN in New York – Jones Beach
Students and faculty from Northeast College of Health Sciences once again brought free chiropractic care to athletes, this time at the third annual IRONMAN 70.3 New York – Jones Beach triathlon, held Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025.
Twenty-four Northeast student clerks and faculty members from both the College’s Long Island Campus in Levittown and the main campus in Seneca Falls volunteered at the finish line of the demanding endurance event. After athletes completed the 1.2-mile swim in Zach’s Bay, 56-mile bike ride along the Wantagh State Parkway and 13.1-mile run on the Jones Beach Boardwalk, the Northeast team provided chiropractic adjustments, therapeutic massage and assisted stretching. More than 300 athletes received care from the College’s volunteers.
Northeast College Gives Back: Supporting Athletes and Community
“Many athletes were in real need of care after such a demanding race, and we were happy to provide those treatments,” said Dr. Daryon Ray, assistant dean of clinical education and interim director of the Long Island Campus. “The energy at the finish line was incredible—athletes were exhausted but grateful, and our students gained valuable hands-on experience supporting recovery and performance.”
More than 4,000 athletes competed in the triathlon, cheered on by hundreds of volunteers and spectators, including members of the #NortheastBlue community. Faculty support was also provided by Dr. Charles Hemsey, adjunct professor; Dr. Veronica Wicks, associate professor; and Dr. Lloyd Kupferman, adjunct professor, all faculty at the Levittown Health Center, as well as adjunct instructors Dr. Maria Lugo and Dr. Carl Russo.
Northeast’s involvement was further strengthened by support from the IRONMAN Foundation, which awarded the College a grant to expand on-site equipment and capabilities. “With this support, we were able to help even more triathletes this year, and we’ll be ready to expand our services for future races,” Ray said.
College President Dr. Michael Mestan emphasized the alignment between the College and IRONMAN. “The IRONMAN legacy inspires people to live their best lives, and that resonates deeply with our ever-better philosophy,” Mestan said. “We are proud to serve our New York communities and support this incredible event.”
The 2025 IRONMAN 70.3 New York – Jones Beach was held just 30 miles from New York City and 15 minutes from Northeast’s Long Island Campus. The College plans to continue its partnership with the IRONMAN Foundation and expand its volunteer presence in future events.