Only a fraction of registered racers had the spirit to brave the elements.
The real-feel temperature was hovering around 30 degrees on Saturday morning.

It was the second annual 5K run for Charity at Mt. Loretto.

The race benefits Catholic Charities of Staten Island.

The winner of the race was the youngest racer: 9-year-old Sal Pirlanti. 

"It was hard because you have to go up hills and down and I kept getting cramps," Pirlanti said.

About a dozen runners hit the pavement and many were decked out in festive attire.

"Hopefully the wind stays down and we're not freezing out there, but it’s a beautiful day so let’s run," Michelle Romano said before the race.

Although many dropped out of the race before it started because of the frigid temps organizers say the run raised $3,000 for the charity.

"All of the money comes in benefits programs such as homes for children in need, people with special disabilities, things of that nature," said organizer, Anthony Rapacciuolo.

Pirlanti said that was reason enough to run. He was also awarded a plaque, which he said he's extremely proud of.

"I raised money for charity and it’s good," he said.

The Catholic Charities of Staten Island will hold its "Christmas at the Mount" fundraiser on December 10 and 11 at Mount Loretto. For more information, visit Mount Loretto's website.