Saturday, May 22, 1999 -- Gassaway
Run For Hunger - 5M Race and 2M Fun Run/Walk
Story by Don Parks with photos by Lisa Selmon

[Coverage/Recap] [Pics Set 1] [Pics Set 2]
Results: [5 Mile Run] [2 Mile Run] [2 Mile Walk]

Everyone pitches in to help out

Runners gathered on the small lawn of the usually quiet Gassaway Community Building early Saturday morning, May 22nd. The occasion was the 19th Annual Run For Hunger, an event that encourages everyone to come out and share a little goodwill to help fight worldwide hunger. The driving force behind the run and walk is John Heater and the generous sponsorship offered from Go-Mart. Another successful year was underway with over 150 participants, ages 2 to 89, both man and animal, and a number of phantoms, all prepared to do their part.

Aaron Kaylor leads from start to finish

The "Phantom Runners" make a traditional appearance by pre-registering for the run with donations often well above the $10 standard fee. While generous contributions are always welcomed, these entrants mysteriously never arrive to claim their race packet. Their reward is obviously something that comes from the gift of charity.

Those throngs of runners and walkers that do take to the streets of Gassaway are primarily made up of the 2 mile walkers. While most of them aren't out to battle for the fastest racing times, they all take home a personal victory in the fight to feed the starving across the world.

When it did come down to the friendly competition among the runners, it was Aaron Kaylor who dashed to the lead in the 5 mile race. He never looked back as he crossed the finish first in a time of 29:23. The fastest female 5 miler was 15-year-old Kristina Reickauer who crossed the line at 35:33.

Moriah and Katie strike a pose for worldwide hunger

At the two mile distance, it was Michael Reickauer out sprinting his competition to take the win in 12:18. Another young lady proved to be the fastest among the women's 2 miler field as 14-year-old Ashley Gatless crossed the line first at 15:41.

Many more awards were handed out including the fastest in the 2 mile walk, Terri Crislip (22:56), along with awards in all the events for age group winners, the oldest participant, and the youngest participant. All those who finished the day's trek were also rewarded with certificates.

A big thanks goes out to all those who helped make the Run For Hunger a success once again. An extra debt of gratitude is extended to the folks at the Gassaway United Methodist Church, Gassaway City Police Department, Braxton County Emergency Squad, and the Mayor of Gassaway, Carl Nardella, who all ensured the day's activities went off without a hitch.