Rush to Brush 5K

Rush to Brush 5K, February 21, 2004

The first McAlister's Deli Rush to Brush 5K run/walk and one-mile run
was held on February 20 with 134 runners, 94 race walkers, and 29
one-milers. After a prayer and some directions from Jack Ward, Jack shot
the gun and we were off. Rob Oates jumped out into a commanding lead and
held it for over a quarter of a mile when the first 15 or 20 runners
missed the third turn because the person who was supposed to be there
was late. Someone yelled at us, and we turned around and came back. Rob
retook the lead shortly and won with a 17:45. He says that missing the
turn cost him about 45 seconds so just imagine what it cost us slower
runners. One runner tried to explain the benefits of being slow and not
missing turns, but that was little consolation. Kathy Travnicek, a
transplant from Chicago, took time away from her medical school studies
to win the ladies division. Jeff Wells and Rita Rucker won the masters
awards. Unfortunately, even though the dental school students advertised
grand masters awards, they forgot to actually buy them. Consequently,
two old runners and two old walkers were disappointed. Larry Sykes and
Kay Moseley won the race walk, and Nancy Dykes and Nick Kendall were the
masters winners. Joey Brinson was the lone wheelchair participant. The
big hills made it hard for him half of the time. Logan Lemoris and
Lauren Gregory were the male and female one-mile winners. With the
exception of the two mistakes (one that adversely affected about 15-20
of us and one that affected four of us), this was an enjoyable race on
a very challenging course. The course was somewhat of an out and back
with numerous turns and big hills. Jack Ward, Jim Myrick and the MTC
people did a great job with their part. The dental students are to be
commended for a first race. I am sure next year's will be better. The
McAlister's cookies and tea along with bananas and apples were also
good. The door prizes were nice and plentiful. One lucky person won two
nights at the Beau Rivage. Several other prizes worth anywhere from
$5.00 to $100.00 were also given away. Complete results are attached.
Many thanks for the race report to © Phillip Wedgeworth

Jack Ward (President) and Jim Myrick (Equipment/Treasurer)
of the Mississippi Track club put on many quality races each year
For complete results of all MTC races see results