December 18, 2011 - Run for the Ranch
This race has become very popular, and not just with the locals. There were nearly 600 participants. This was similar to last year, but without the 5K & 10K, making the course less congested.
I believe it was a very positive experience, and we enjoyed being there. It was a looooooooong day.
December 17, 2011 - Christmas Mile
Mr. & Mrs. Santa Claus watached over this year's Mile. It is a different kind of race with it's point-to-point, downhill path. Kevin Zimmerman won, followed by Matt Wegenka. There were some very quick times.
Saturday, December 3, 2011
The folks at the Catholic Campus Ministry really got the word out this year. The numbers more than doubled for the 24th annual Jack Frost 5K & 2.5K. It was windy, and we had to reinforce, but the O'Reilly Student Center provides an excellent gathering place before and after the event.
The morning was cozy and fun.
Here is a video of the start:
and the finish:
Thursday, November 24, 2011
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!
We had 302 participants in our 3rd Annual Street Meet. We had a lot of fun. The pie was very tasty. I am thankful for all of you and the RRS crew as well as the ORS crew. To view the video, Copy and paste this link to your browser:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6tAHXcqGafc&feature=channel_video_title
Saturday, November 19, 2011
Willard: The Frisco Age Group results are right here:
It was a windy race, and I think the wind may have wreaked havoc on the computer. When it got back to its nice little office, all of the information was as it should be. We apologize for the trouble. Great job Kevin MacDonald and the Willard Parks Dept.
Ozark: Ozark's Down by the Riverside Run for Shoes went very well. There were lots of volunteers, a beautiful course, good awards, and a great turnout.
Joplin: The Seibert's from Joplin put on a very organized and unique event in Joplin for Breast Cancer with their Jewels of the Miles theme.
Pershing: The Parkinson's 5K, put on by Monty Montgomery is always a favorite on the Greenways Trail from Pershing Middle School.
I hope you all have a happy and relaxing day.
Saturday, November 12, 2011
We headed off to Bolivar this morning for the Peacock Trails 5K. Nestled north of the City of Bolivar, beside the hospital, is a beautiful little park called Dunnegan Park. K-Life of Polk County put on a fun trail race, which was well organized. The next time you are in the area, try out the terrain.
The St. Joseph's the Worker Catholic Church in Ozark put on a first-class event with their 5K & Mile. Yes, there were some hills, but it was a good day for running with good prizes and food afterward.
Friday, November 11, 2011
It was another terrific evening at the City. Bring me more wassail and cookies!
We had some 1,770 sign up and around 1,000 actually ran. It was more about the lights and festivities.
Things could not have gone better.
We appreciate the Herschend's for letting us come to their place and have such a good time. They raised a lot of money for the Caring People.
Saturday, November 5, 2011
It wasn't a good day to wake up with flu symptoms. Nonetheless, we headed to Neosho for the Four States Flattest 5K. It is a well-organized event from the YMCA on the Crowder College Campus. They had beautiful fall shirts and mile splits along the course. We enjoyed the majestic colors on the drive to and from. Over 100 people showed up to do the 5K or mile.
The CBC in north Springfield held its second annual Homecoming 5K. It was a light turnout, with a beautiful course. Ryan Slight brought home the overall winner's trophy. The overall female was 12-yr. old Adrian Adams.
Saturday, October 29, 2011
We squeezed one more beautiful Saturday out of October.
Kicking off with the Amazing MSU Homecoming 5k, where we had 247 runners, we proceeded to the Jordan Valley Park for the Halloween Hustle 5K. Sponsored by ANPAC, the costumes were creative and unique. The course stayed to the north of Trafficway, where the MSU Homecoming parade was staging. It was a fun and festive atmosphere.
The Persimmon 5K Race in Sparta had a homey, small-town flavor. Prize money attracted some of the elite crowd.
The Skaggs inaugural 5K on the Landing drew the folks who love to shop and hang out by the water.
It was a great day for running and racing in Springfield. We are so fortunate to have many choices.
Saturday, October 22, 2011
Today, we Pumpkin Dashed at Republic, soared with the Caped Heroes at Branson, ran for the Orchard Hills near Willard, got Challenged at the Ozark Community Center, and ran cross country at Lake Springfield with the Home School Athletes.
There was a lot of sweat, enthusiasm, and effort.
When the folks at Branson Probation and Parole contacted me a few months ago about a race at the airport, I envisioned frantic runners trying to outpace inbound air traffic. This was not the case, however, as they shut down the runway until 10:30 a.m. It turns out, one down and back, utilizing the runway and taxi area, is a 5K. Some folks wore capes, just to add to the hero theme and the hilarity of my mental picture.
The weather today, made each event particularly beautiful. I set out to find joy in the day, and I did!
Saturday, October 15, 2011
It was another fun Saturday at the races. Logan-Rogersville hosted their annual Wildcat Duathlon and Sassafrass 5K from their beautiful high school.
The fall colors presented a majestic backdrop for both the run and bike courses. Everything went very smoothly because of the parents involvement and due to Rod Pennington's direction.
LRHS Project Graduation will benefit from the funds.
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
We were at Nixa on Tuesday, timing the COC Meet. It was very exciting as always and finished off the season for many of the area schools. If you check the results, you will see many quick times.
Saturday, October 8, 2011
Nothing says fall like the Sunshine Run. A tradition of Springfield running for over 30 years, it continues to draw around 1,500 people each year. The Hammons Field makes for a beautiful venue, and it is fun seeing everyone on the big screen. It could not have been smoother.
Results for the 5K & 10K are published.
The Apple Butter Makin Days 5K, in its second year, drew 75 people. Thanks Joe for being in two different places on Saturday.
Saturday, October 1, 2011
The Care to Learn organization hosted 700 folks in their annual 2-mile/5K/12K Races today. The Drury O'Reilly Event Center was a perfect venue. There were gobs of prizes, good food, great weather, and good people. The volunteers were also impressive, and we could not do it without them.
The Pregnancy Care Center 5K drew 300 participants in its 5K. The course is downtown, scenic, and historic. The PCC has a very passionate and loyal following.
The Alpha Delta Pi Sororiety at MSU hosted their In Like a Lion 5K with over 260 entrants. Smith Park was a unique location. The course ran around Evangel and the National Guard Armory neighborhood. It was very festive with a youthful population.
Bolivar hosted its second Community in Motion 5K. Southwest Baptist is always a very gracious host.
Tuesday, September 27, 2011 - Cedar Ridge XC
It's always fun to see the kids and the camaraderie. There was good competition, lots of hills, many colors, and a lot of food. Try to catch a cross country meet any time that you can. It will reinvigorate you. See results by clicking on the link above.
Saturday, September 24, 2011
We enjoyed the Tanger Outlet 5K once again. They grew to 255 people this year. With the growth, we will add a Friday packet pick-up next year. There were worthwhile prizes in shoes, clothing, and lodging.
The Brain Injury Mile/5k/10k in Mt. Vernon was the second annual. It was a pleasant event, well organized, with a small-town flavor.
The Stockton Nut Run has been happening for at least three years. Along with the Black Walnut Festival, there is plenty to do while you are there.
There is no need to be idle. If you are injured or do not want to participate, we would love to have you as a volunteer.
All results are published.
Saturday, September 17, 2011
This was the 2nd annual Boathouse Race. Competitors could race a 5K through the woods on some new trails and/or paddle three miles in their kayaks or canoes.
We stayed wet from the start to the finish. There were snacks throughout the day to keep us going.
Thanks to the folks at the Good Samaritan Boys Ranch, the Springfield Parkboard, and all of the sponsors.
Saturday, September 10, 2011
The I Pour Life Organization helps to build wells in countries where clean water is not available. Some women must walk 2.5 miles one way for water, carrying 40 pounds of water on their back for the return trip. Funds from today's 8K will help in that effort.
So far this organization has assisted with providing clean water to 10,000 people in Africa and adopted three refugee camps in El Salvador. A new well in Ethiopia will bring clean water to 10,000 people.
Funds also help with local efforts, such as Joplin medical needs and in Springfield as needed.
Ipourlife's slogan: "Teach with your life."
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The Conway folks named their race the Bearfoot Run after their school's mascot, the grizzly. There were over 125 people the first year. The finish line coincided with the street craft fair.
I loved the smell of hay and the small town feel.
Monday, September 5, 2011
It was a run through history for at least 75 people as they participated in the inaugural 5K & Half Marathon, held on the Frisco Trail. It was most generous of the Baird family to let us use their Conco conference center.
David Eslick headed up the race to draw attention to the History Museum. He is the interim director of the Museum and a walking piece of history.
HAPPY LABOR DAY!
Saturday, September 3, 2011
One of our teams went to The Branson Landing to time the K-Life Labor Day Races. The mile and 5K took a new course, as no one was allowed to cross under the bridge. A 10K was added, which followed the 5K course two loops. It is always festive on the Landing. It's great to do a little shopping and have lunch with some of our favorite runners afterward.
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The Springfield Cardinals held a 5K on a familiar course throughout the Jordan Valley Park area. The t-shirts and game tickets were a draw, with nearly 100 people showing up the first year. It's nice to have so many choices.
Saturday, August 27, 2011
The parents and students at The Summit Prep School rallied today with a great turnout at their annual 5K & Fun Run. There was a pancake breakfast after the race, a beautiful venue, flat course, and good music. Come and join us next year to help raise money for their school.
Saturday, August 20, 2011
Everything was smooth this weekend for the 2nd Annual Branson Mtn. Man Triathlon. We hope you get the word out for next year. It is a great practice for the upcoming Branson HI. The staff at the Branson RecPlex do a splendid job with the details, and it is a beautiful facility.
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The crew at Haley's Hope 5K/10K had a little too much fun. This event is well supported by the American Theatrical Company. The challenging course is part of the draw.
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It was the first event for the Food Pantry at Ash Grove. The family of Dennis and Tammi Acox did a great job. So many choices. Such a great weekend!
Saturday, August 13, 2011
Today, we had a respectable crowd at the Inaugural Birthplace of Rte. 66 5K. Tom Horton, former owner of Har-Bell Athletic Store, served as the race director. Proceeds benefitted the Downtown Urban Alliance. There were great prizes for downtown businesses and movie tickets. I saw several people taking away boxes of donuts.
Some people got bad directions along the way, but the order of finish did not change for the results. It was a unique event due to the location. With some good course volunteers, it will grow.
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We had another great race down by the Finley River. The setting is beautiful, and a lot of folks showed up to support the Ozark XC Team. Chris Yates had to go run one more for the home town team before heading west.
Saturday, August 6, 2011
The was the 8th annual Kidathlon at Meador Park. We had 87 participants, and it was the smoothest yet. The Andy's frozen custard at the end of the race is a favorite. The volunteers were eager and plentiful. It was a great event.
Saturday, July 30, 2011
This year's Concreteman Triathlon may be renamed the Concreteman Swim. The course was long, but you've probably already heard about that. It was a great day, if you are a fish. Some swimmers really were excited.
To the majority of people who did not want to swim so far, we apologize. The surveyor who usually helps to set our buoys was gone, and the wrong map with the wrong coordinates was used. Until we watched the first swimmers with baited breath, take so long to exit the water, we were not suspicious. By then, it was too late. It was equal in that all competitors covered the same distance.
In 28 years, you think you've seen it all, but this year brings something new.
I hope that you took something positive away from it anyway.
Saturday, July 23, 2011
The inaugural Bentley Fund 5K was a huge success with well over 200 entrants. The course drew people into the downtown area and the population that is served by this facility. Thanks for supporting it.
This was our second trip to Windsor, MO for the Tribute Tri. We added a children's tri on Friday night.
It was so hot, that we were just happy no one got into trouble with the elements. Getting there and coming home was challenging for us as we endured a borrowed R.V., a fender nearly falling off, a flat tire, and heat that permeated through our pores.
The Run for a Reason 5k/10k in Eldorado Springs seems to be very popular in the area. It went off without a hitch, and we enjoyed working with the staff from Evans Drugs.
Sunday, July 17, 2011
This year's Lake Freebird Triathlon was dominated by the Belk Family. Eric Belk won the overall men's, and Missy Belk won the overall women's category in the Sprint Race.
There was a Beginner Tri with no awards, but it was a great opportunity for first timers to get wet.
There was also a kids event this year, which was non-competitive. But, who are we kidding, those kids were tough, and they were competing all out. I can see this division really growing.
I love this place. Someone is always doing something that involves a bike, boat, kayak or their two feet. Oh, to be a relative of Cynthia's!
Saturday, July 16, 2011
It was a sea of periwinkle, raspberry, and ceramic as 1,000 women took off from Phelps Grove Park this morning. It was the largest women's run ever in Springfield and one of the largest in the state. Kimi Reed won the race in 18:16, followed closely by Ashley O'Reilly in 18:46. I will post pictures, when I get some. What a fun morning!
Saturday, July 7, 2011
Chris Yates wins Dragon's Breath before travelling to the 1st Annual Dash N' Dip to win that one.
The second annual Dragon's Breath grew in population and in swag. Each participant got a cool t-shirt, headband, and drawstring backpack. All of these were dragon themed, as well as the awards. It was a challenge to all race directors to be so original.
If you want to see photographs taken by Mike Baxter, click here:
Also on this date, the inaugural Dash N' Dip, held in and around the Republic Community Center, ended with a splash. The entry fee afforded all of the usual amenities of a good road race, in addition to admission into the pool for a few hours. It was a good effort on the part of Gerry Sisson and the folks from Destiny Church.
Saturday, July 2, 2011
Craig and I enjoyed running Becky Lowrance's Freedom Run on Saturday. It was good to hang out, enjoy the race and be with friends.
2011 Freedom Run
Monday, July 4, 2011 - Firecracker 5000 & 10K
The Firecracker 5000 grew to 329 folks this year. Holidays generally make for good races as people look for ways to work out with their families then eat and relax for the rest of the day. It was a lot of fun and a great setting.
Our day was complete with the annual fireworks display at the Big Cedar Lodge. I hope that you all had a happy and blessed Holiday.
Chris & Carter
Saturday, June 18, 2011
We found ourselves in many places today, which is better than not finding yourself at all.
The Dash to the Splash at White Water doubled in size, as we had 530 registrants. The overall winner was Chris Yates (16:05) and Kari Clevenger (21:11) from Raymore, MO. No one got lost today, but some folks opted for the one-lap course, which was really not an option. Send us some good pictures of you and yours at the Park.
Hunter Carlson, Alex Ewy & Kameron Koenig ready to run
The Frisco Runaway Triathlon at Willard was a lot of fun. It was the first of the season for many, so it was a matter of getting all of the kinks worked out.
The Aurora Run for the Parks had over 100 people. Everything went very smoothly, and we will look forward to next year.
Saturday, June 11, 2011
One word to describe this morning's weather was sultry. There were some good times as Chris Yates (16:38) and young Ellyn Atkinson (19:59) came in first overall male and female. Clinton Petty (19:17) and Pam Sailors (22:39) led the masters field.
The passion to help was evident and the donations rolled in to cover costs and help with local relief efforts.
Our dog, Otis, is recovering from the shock of the moving/talking fire hydrant.
Saturday, June 4, 2011
It was good to see you all out again today. There were 987 folks entered in all events. Race results are online.
Here is a picture of our kids training group, which we have held for 20 yrs.
The big kid in the back is Craig. The other one in front is Bill Drummond.
Little Dak Henning at his first race ever.
Saturday, May 7, 2011
Thank you so much for your support during this very difficult time. All results are published.
Saturday, April 16, 2011 - Aurora, Willard, & Bridges
The Willard Conquer Cancer 5K, started by Debra Ellis, always raises good money for cancer research. While she is home with her baby, Brian Hayes has stepped up to lead the event and the enthusiastic Run Club there at the Intermediate School. It is a very healthy place.
Craig and Linda travelled to Aurora this morning to take care of their Beat Cancer event. A substantial crowd showed up and enjoyed the run and peripherals.
The Run for Bridges enjoyed its third 5K today. Jordan Valley and the trail make for a beautiful course. Soon, we will have to divert from the path as a new maintenance shed is constructed. The Bridges for Youth program is a worthy beneficiary of these funds.
Saturday, April 9, 2011 - Mercy Me, Anytime Fitness, Crappie Day, & Uganda Living Water
The Mercy Me 5K/10K/Mile had a great showing today. It was very windy by finishing time up on the hill at Lebanon's St. John's Hospital. This is a hilly course, but it is good for spectators with three opportunities to view the runners. My highlight, as always, was lunch with the Barnett's.
Lunch after Mercy Me, Lebanon, MO
Gene Lund, Brent Barnett, Pete Peterson, Miriam Flouer (back)
Faydene Barnett & Maggie the dog (front)
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The Anytime Fitness Prediction brought a new slant to the 5K. We enjoyed working with the staff at both the Nixa and Springfield locations. Participants were awarded by their ability to pace themselves and predict the outcome. It was a very festive atmosphere.
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The Crappie Day 5K is a great opportunity for a short trip to the Lake. This was a record attendance for this race as well. Joy Weis is an amazing young lady who grew up in Stockton, lives in Lebanon, and goes to law school in OKC. If you choose to run this race next year, bring your fishing pole.
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This is my public apology to Joe & John Lomosi, as well as Brandi Bowling for sending them the wrong database. It barely phased them, as they got all entrants put into the computer and scored efficiently. I heard that the course was challenging, but everyone had a lot of fun. I guess we are all looking for a change of pace.
Saturday, April 2, 2011 - Marshfield Unity 5K & Bolivar Alpha House 5K
Some folks took the day off from racing today, and who can blame them? It was a beautiful day, and there are so many choices out there.
We enjoyed travelling to Bolivar and Marshfield. I hope that you got out and enjoyed the weather.
Saturday, March 26, 2011 - Frisco & Ozark
You all were so brave today. I always wonder, "Would I have run the race under those conditions?" In my race-ready days, no doubt I would have gone to the start line. As I grow older and revel in comfort, yes I still would. There is no better feeling than running in adverse conditions, burning all those calories, and knowing you will reward yourself the rest of the day.
Congratulations to you for whatever effort you put forth on this day.
Saturday, March 19, 2011 - Pitter Pat & Saddlebrook
There was a great turnout for this year's Pitter Pat Run this morning with over 550 runners. The O'Reilly Center at Drury was a wonderful staging area to start and finish the event. Everyone was having a great time, though it was hectic for us at the start.
The Saddlebrook Run had over 100 runners and was very enjoyable. The location and scenic vista is the draw.
Saturday, March, 12, 2011 - JFK, Shamrock, Leapin Leprachan, & Marshfield
The weather could not have been nicer. The people could not have been kinder. The races could not have gone more smoothly.
I wish every day was like today.
Whether you were in Springfield, Branson, Lebanon, or Marshfield, I hope that you had a good race experience. There were leprachans and shamrocks all over the place.
Aren't we all ready for the spring?
Results for all races are posted.
Saturday, March, 5, 2011 - Missouri Winter Games & Viking Endowment 5K
Had we not had a taste of spring last week, it would not have been so bad. It was miserable as we tried to make do in the race yurt.
The 90 finishers at the Parkview race reflected about half of those who had entered. Many folks went to the gym for breakfast afterward. Later on, there was a craft fair. It was a good fund-raising day by the parents and teachers for the PHS Endowment Fund.
The Winter Games 5K is a small fraction of the total effort by Jeff Collins. There are over 1,000 gymnasts who compete in that aspect of the Games. There are as many more who participate in the basketball, soccer, racquetball, and swimming events. He had much support in carrying out this year's event so soon after the death of his beloved wife, Kathy.
Saturday, February 26, 2011 - Polar Bear
This event deserves so much respect for lasting over 30 years. I think the reschedule, due to the snowstorm, worked in our favor.
New race director, Johanna Wood with the YMCA, did a great job.
Everyone seemed pleased with the stocking caps and gloves. Mark Kastner and Lullel Hickman even wore their retro Polar Bear caps from 30 years ago.
Proceeds go to the Bolivar YMCA.
Saturday, February 12, 2011 - Valentine's Run
It was so good to be out again.
The cabin fever subsided for a bit while everyone gathered to compete for candy. The Candy House medals, made from chocolate, are the best.
The race grew to 265 entrants. The pre-race Valentine's meal drew 79 diners, and 55 raffle tickets were sold. All totalled, this was an excellent fund raiser for Girls on the Run and a sweet time for all of the runners.
Saturday, January 15, 2011 - RRS 3000 Estimated Time
It was great to see everyone this morning.
For the second year, Michael Willis guessed within 1/2 second of his predicted time. He gets a year of one free race per month. Gift cards and random drawing prizes were given to various other attendees.
We will see you all tonight!
Saturday, January 1, 2011- Joplin Chilly 5K
We were off to a running start on the first day of the year. At 11:11:11 a.m., we began the Chilly 5K from the downtown Joplin YMCA to the YMCA located by Freeman Medical Center. It was well attended with 279 participants.