The 2011 People's United Bank Chilly Chili Run was historic in many ways.

For many years the popular New Year's Day 5k race featured Orange's favorite runner, senior citizen George "Doc" Whitney, who began his running career at the tender age of 80.

When he turned 90, race organizers created a new age group, 90 and over, to accommodate him.

This year, at 92, Doc was again the oldest runner, but he had competition: Two other runners, Bill Tribou, 90, of Granby and Bill Benson, 91, of Valley Stream, New  York.

Race Director Joe Riccio said he believed that Tribou would blow Doc's record out of the water, but no one knew that they would see a historic finish.

The previous US record for 90 and over was set in November by a Buffalo, New York man at 40:13. Tribou beat that record with a time of 37:31.

Doc Whitney came in less than 10 minutes later with a time of 47:15, beating his previous time by 56 seconds.

The third 90+ runner Bill Benson, finished the race at 1:08:26.

This year's Chili Run also attracted a record number of runners. More than 600 people registered for the race and about 580 finished the 5k.

In addition, the event, which typically brings in $6,000 - $8,000 for the Amity Teen Center, raised an estimated $10,000 — another new record, according to treasurer Linda Cohen.

Amity Teen Center President Jane Opper said she was overjoyed with everything about the race.

"You couldn't ask for better weather. So many people came out for it," she said. "The three gentlemen were the true stars of the day. The volunteers were wonderful, from the kitchen help and those on the course and at the registration tables. I really appreciate everything everyone did."

"This was truly an amazing day," she said. "It's a wonderful way to start the year."