Sunday, April 9, 2006 -- Morgantown, WV
Ambulance Chase - MAGP #3 (iPO Event Id#: 7420)
Story and photos by Julie Black

[Details] [Coverage] [Overall Results] [Results by Class]
[Pic Set 1] [Pic Set 2] [Pic Set 3] [Pic Set 4]

Past Coverage: [2001] [2002] [2003] [2004] [2005]

Brave and... barefoot? Ouch.

The 3rd event in the 2006 Morgantown Area Grand Prix (MAGP) series of charity races, the Ambulance Chase was graced with a beautiful spring day. Not too hot, and not too cool, racers were treated to perfect weather and a stellar BBQ afterwards.

A portion of the proceeds from the 5K was donated to West Virginia Senior Legal Aid. Providing free civil legal services to qualified West Virginians over age 60, WV Senior Legal Aid raised little over $3,000 last year.

The traditional start of the 5K

Since it's induction in 2001, West Virginia University law students have began the race with a sense of humor. The students, dressed in suits, sports jackets, skirts and loafers chase a roaring Ambulance up a neighborhood street waving their arms. After the crowd of racers and spectators enjoy a hearty laugh, it's time to start the 5K.

The course presents a few hills mixed in with a few flat spots on asphalt roads that wind through the quiet Morgantown neighborhood of Suncrest.

Familiar faces lined the streets for this 5K favorite, among them was 2005 MAGP overall 3rd place winner, Brandon Miles of Grafton, WV. Miles has been making his mark on the MAGP Series since last year. In 2006, he looks even stronger, leading the Ambulance Chase pack by over a minute to finish first with a time of 16:42. Miles also finished first overall in the Cooper's Rock 10K, an MAGP event held in March.

Heading for the finish...

In second, Zach Serian of Barrackville, WV claimed the spot in17:26, and third, Drew Parsons (17:38), a local Morgantowner.

Cathy Ricker of Fairmont, WV is currently leading the women's standings in the 2006 MAGP Series after 3 races. She finished first for the women in the Ambulance Chase with a time of 20:51. From Lavale Maryland, Paula Bridges (21:22), claimed second. Morgantown local, Laurie Abildso (21:42), rounded the spots out in third.

After the race it was time for a spring BBQ in Krepps Park. Thanks to all who provided support, food, and more.