Saturday, December 4, 1999 -- Huntington, WV
Jingle Bell 5K Run
Story and photos by Pam Anderson

[Coverage/Recap] [Pic Set 1] [Pic Set 2] [Results]

Sprinting through Huntington's streets

Ringing in the holiday spirit this past Saturday was the Jingle Bell Run for Arthritis 5K and 1K Fun Walk in downtown Huntington. Even with overcast skies and cooler temperatures this fun and festive event is guaranteed to put you in the holiday spirit. With jingle bells on their feet the runners and walkers hit downtown Huntington's decorated, level streets with the promise of a Pancake breakfast with Santa at the finish line.

Racing for the first time in West Virginia and capturing a first place finish for the male overall with an impressive time of 15:54 was Andrew Burford. Andrew, originally from Toronto, Canada, is a junior at Moorhead University majoring in Journalism where he also runs for the cross-country team. Connie Young of Hurricane, West Virginia, conquered a first place female overall with a time of 19:15. Connie said, "The course was a pretty easy, flat course."

Santa's helpers warming up for the big day?

Other awards given out were for individual fundraising. Since all proceeds go to help support the Arthritis Foundation, runners and walkers were giving an opportunity to have their family and friends support their run. Elaine Wykle brought in the top pledge for the day with a total of $100.

Hearing the jingle bells running down the street, you couldn't help but to smile and get in the holiday mood. Many thanks to race director Mary Ann Haldeman for a special holiday treat. Also to the many volunteers from Huntington High School who came out to help with traffic control and Tom Plummers wonderful wife, Judy who provided the race results since Tom was stranded in Chicago. Happy Holidays to all.