Saturday, May 22, 1999 -- Parkersburg
3rd Annual Vienna River 5 Mile Run/5K Walk
Story by Don Parks with photos by Lew McGrath

[Coverage/Recap] [Pics Set 1] [Pics Set 2] [Pics Set 3]
Run Results: [Overall] [By Class] Walk Results: [Overall] [By Class]

George Angelos is off to another fast start

Everything was ready for the Vienna River 5 Mile Run and 5K Walk, now in its third year, on the morning of Saturday, May 22nd. However, after terrific weather in 1998, the skies looked ominous for the start in 1999. Regardless, the crowds still flocked to Jackson Jr. High Stadium with over 250 runners and walkers ready to brave whatever Mother Nature had in store. The cloudy skies held back as the gun sounded to start the eager participants in their attempt to out run the eminent rainfall.

Janice Ridenour jets to the finish

Racing out to the front on the mostly flat 5 mile course was George Angelos, who finished last year's race second overall in a time of 28:05.06. Although a faint mist of precipitation fell during parts of the race, it never seemed to slow anyone down. At this year's finish, Angelos improved his time by almost 30 seconds to finish in 27:39.57. But once again, his bid for a first place finish fell short as he was second to cross the line. Taking first was Derek Finegan who flew through the course in an outstanding time of 26:48.89.

The women's field saw Kelly McGraw take off from the start as she wasted little time in separating herself from the rest of the competition. McGraw finished the race in a time of 31:55.14 for a 9th overall and several minutes ahead of her nearest challenger. A nice improvement of almost two and a half minutes over her 34:23.25 third place finish in 1998.

Everyone had reason to celebrate

In the 5K walk competition, John Mike Nichols strutted his way to the overall win in a time of 30:01.28. Coming out on top in the race among the women was Janice Ridenour whose strides brought her to the finish in 34:42.04.

Many, many more runners and walkers made their way to the finish with the strained and smiling faces of another hard fought and well earned achievement. After the race everyone enjoyed great post-race refreshment and helped congratulate the many award winners. Once the crowds cleared, the skies thundered with approval as the rain began to fall and take its turn to run down the streets of Vienna.