Saturday, May 7, 2011 -- Kingwood, WV
Cheat River Festival 5K
2011: [Details] [Coverage] [Photos] [Overall Results] [Results by Class]
[2005] [2006] [2007] [2008] [2009] [2010]
Watershed and Personal Renewal
Story and photos by Julie Black
The 5K, paddling race, and festival proceeds all contribute to help the restore, preserve, and promote the outstanding natural qualities of the Cheat watershed.
Rain threatened the course on Saturday morning, as it often does this time of year. But the skies turned blue and by race end, the weather was downright springy. Butterflies fluttered river side, while bees buzzed and hummed along the course.
From the start, Brian Menzies of Fairmont Family Chiropractic trotted out to an early lead. But he couldn't hold it for the full 3.1 miles of road. Zach Heuscher ran past Menzies and stayed ahead to win the 5K run in 18:21.
Lila Menzies, wife of Brian and also part of Fairmont Family Chiropractic, took home the first place female prize with a time of 23 minutes and 20 seconds.
In second for the women was Dani Martin (23:42), and third was Lydia Valeuta (23:46).
Sculpted ceramic bowls dyed with EnvironOxide, a pigment recovered from acid mine drainage streams, were awarded to the overall winners. Sculpted medallions made from the same dyed materials were given to age group winners.
More than 130 runners and walkers completed the 5K on the day, quite a few more than in 2010. The support was greatly appreciated!
Thank You 5K Sponsors:
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Preston County Country Club, Culligan, Road I.D., iPlayOutside.com
Runners World Magazine, Mountaineer Area Rescue Group
Kingwood Pharmacy, Book Exchange, WesBanco
Alpine Lake Resort, Mettiki Coal, The Casteel Lawfirm
Black Bear Burritos, HealthWorks Rehab & Fitness
Fairmont Family Chiropractic, Old Colony Realtors