Saturday, February 26, 2000 -- Kanawha City, WV
Apollo's Winter Run 5K
Story and photos by Pam Anderson

[Details] [Coverage] [Results] [Pic Set 1] [Pic Set 2] [Pic Set 3]

The sun shines down on the start of Apollo's Run

Last years rainy day was just a memory as the 3rd Annual Apollo's Winter Run got under way Saturday, February 26th, at the University of Charleston. The warm sunny weather brought out a record crowd for the run. A Guest starter, Jim Lees, Democrat candidate for West Virginia's governor started the fifty-plus runners off through the twisting course on the streets surrounding the University.

Taking an early lead and easy win was Steve Crowder, of Fincastle Virginia, with a great time of 14:06 on a couse that seemed not quite 5K. Steve has been a devoted runner for eight years setting course records and also placing second overall in The Running Journal Grand Prix for the southeast. Traveling with him to the races is his good luck charm and most devoted fan, Leslie, his wife.

High steppin' it through the streets of Kanawha City

Walking away with (or should we say running away with) the win for females was Jessica Taylor a bright young high school track star. Jessica is a junior at Fayetteville High School where she will be hitting the pavement starting Monday for this year's spring track season. Along with her father Larry Taylor Jessica will be helping with the Fayetteville Easter Lily 5K in April. So be sure to check it out.

Race director Bradley Merritt, a Tau Kappa Epsilon (TKE) said that proceeds will be given to the Kanawha County Special Olympics to help these inspiring athletes reach their quest for gold. So a special thanks to Brad and fellow TKE's for getting up early and working hard for a great cause. Other sponsors included University of Charleston, Charter Communications and David Saul Auto.