HMC adds 5K race to popular half-marathon
Published on -10/16/2009, 4:06 PM
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By KALEY CONNER
About 140 people will be racing across Hays on Sunday for the third annual STRIDE half-marathon hosted by Hays Medical Center's Center for Health Improvement. New to the event is a 5K run.
Attendance has increased steadily over the past several years, with this year's event being the largest yet, said Fitness Manager Stephanie Schaffer.
"So many people are using this as something they've never done before," Schaffer said. "It's just something different."
All runners will take off at 7:30 a.m. from CHI, located at 2500 Canterbury. The 13.1-mile, half-marathon route will lead runners west to Smoky Hill Country Club, out to the U.S. Highway 183 Bypass and down Main Street on the way back to the HMC campus.
Volunteers from the Fort Hays State University cross country team will help with the event, and local law enforcement will provide assistance at busy intersections, Schaffer said.
About 30 people have signed up for the 5K run, and will complete a 3.1 mile route. Participants in both events can choose to run or walk.
Prizes will be awarded to the top male and female in each of seven age groups in both events. Winners in the half-marathon will get cash, and medals will be distributed to those who place in the 5K.
The event started several years ago at the request of CHI members, Schaffer said, noting many participants compete annually.
"They look forward to it every year," Schaffer said.
Contestants were provided with a 12-week training program, which started in late July.
Weather forecasts suggest Sunday's runners should see blue skies and fairly warm temperatures, which is a relief following several days of winter-like weather, Schaffer said.
"This is the one week out of the entire year that I watched the Weather Channel every day," Schaffer said with a laugh.
