The 22nd annual 5K Run/Walk was held in Island Falls on Saturday, with 52 runners and 25 walkers competing in the event.
The new course is very flat along a stream, out and back, said race chairman John Walker.
“This course is preferred by most all participants,” he said. “The start/finish behind the ball field made for great spectator viewing and photography.”
Finishing first overall under overcast skies and muggy 70 degree temperatures was Jeff Ashby, who ran the 3.1-mile course in a time of 17:45, followed by Nick Lunn of Hodgdon with a time of 18:47.
“Nick was one second faster this year than a year ago, which is pretty consistent,” said Walker.
Sharon Hathaway of Island Falls was the overall female winner, picking up her second Pie Run title, with a time of 19:31. She was the third finisher overall this year and she won the event in 2012.
Brent Bailey nipped Dave Bates for the second straight year, as both runners were neck and neck to the finish line, making for a “fun” competition. Bailey beat out Bates by one second.
Winning the walking division were, male, Alan Chamberlain, 27:14 and female winner, Heather Newman, 27:13.
Luke Streinz and Teanne Ewings were the male and female winners of the Kids Fun Run for the second straight year.
Age group category winners included:
Under 14: male runner, Will Austin, 22:31; female runner, Teagan Ewings, 22:35 and walker, Connor Walker, 38:32.
Age 15-19: male runner, Nick Lunn,18:47; female runner, Lauren Hodge, 19:53; male walker, Hunter Walker, 28:16; and female walker, Paige Mackinnon, 28:17.
Age 20-29 winners: male runner, Doug Bailey, 21:10; and female runner, Roxanna Hernandez, 25:08.
Age 30-39 winners: male runner, Steve Desmond, 19:44; female runner, Nicole Hanscom, 21:25; and female walker, Heather Boyer, 36:19.
Age 40-49 winners; male runner, Scot Walker, 23:47; female runner, Angela Ewings, 22:16; and female walker, Heather Thomas, 31:40.
Age 50-59 winners: male runner, Rob Langer, 22:59; female runner, Sue Oliver, 28:14; and female walker, Jeanie Schenk, 30:17.
Age 60-69 winners: male runner, Larry Tonzi, 21:51; male walker, Richard Lane, 28:46; and female walker, Gail Davis, 28:51.
Age 70+ winner: female walker, Rebekah Stevens, 28:53.
Desserts were awarded to all the winners and about $1,000 in door prizes were awarded. Many thanks to all the businesses — especially the two largest supporters Jerry’s Thriftway and Coca-Cola — who gave prizes, water, watermelon and other race supplies.
After the race the remaining desserts were auctioned off.
“We had an outstanding number of local and far-away cooks who made so many pies and desserts,” added Walker. “It was a lively auction with a cherry pie going for $150.”
In all, approximately $1,300 was raised for the local Agape Food Pantry, which assists about 90 families from the area.
Race organizers John, Steve and Scot Walker want to thank everyone for their participation, the businesses for their support, the cooks for their tireless pie/dessert making, and to those who bid at the auction.
“It is a community effort for a wonderful cause,” said Walker.
Plan ahead for next year, as the race/walk is always the first Saturday in August.
