Saturday, June 12, 1999 -- Kingwood
1st Annual 5K Run for M.S.
Story and Photos by Lisa Selmon

[Coverage/Recap w/Pics] [Pic Set 1] [Pic Set 2]
Results: [Overall] [Age Group]

Starting a Tradition

The 1st Annual 5K Run for MS is off to a healthy start as races go. With a first-time turnout of more than 40 runners, the race is sure to grow and become an integral part of many runners' summers.

With the skies clear and the temperature rising, the runners gathered in the shade of some nearby trees prior to the commencement of the 1st Annual race. Anxiety waivered and many questioned exactly where the course would be run. It was explained over the loud speaker, that the course was well marked and ran basically an out-and-back pattern with a small loop near the first half. The runners were eager and soon, the starting gun was fired.

Heather is victorious over all.

It seemed as though the temperatures rose in the short time it took Heather Bury to take over the lead from the beginning, finishing in 17:30. Her closest contender, Steve Hiser (18:16) barely nipped at her heels and finished 46 seconds behind as the first male finisher. Roles seemed to be turned in the heat today as most races see a several males completing the course before the first female crosses the line.

Post-race comments were overheard of plans to cool-off by the pool for some well-earned rest and relaxation. Following the race a multitude of door prizes from many vendors were distributed as well as trophies for the overall winners and age groups finishers. Plenty of fresh fruit and beverages were available to cool-down the very hot runners.

A special thanks goes out to the Kingwood Junior Women's Club volunteers, the local police and fire department and the many other volunteers who made this race a success.