Saturday, November 5, 2011 -- Wheeling, WV
Veterans Day 10K Run/Walk (iPO Event Id#: 13398)

2011: [Details] [Coverage] [Photos] [Overall Results] [Results by Class]

[2010 Coverage]

More Than 23 Thousand Raised in 2 Years

Story by Heather Parks with photos by Don Parks.

Runners, walkers, and wheelchair racers all gathered at Bridge Street Middle School in Wheeling for the 2nd annual Veteran's Day 10k to pay homage and raise money for the men and women who have fought for our freedom.

The morning was cold, requiring hats and gloves for some, long sleeves and long pants for others. The runners filed out of the warm gymnasium and onto the street for the National Anthem and the start. A cluster of over 350 runners, walkers, and wheelchair racers took to the streets of Wheeling to run the second half of the infamous 20k course.

Jason Bennett, Cedric Robinson, and Andrew Butler broke away from the rest of the racers early, leaving the race for first place until Wheeling Hill where Jason Bennett made his move and would eventually win with a 36:26. Cedric Robinson placed second with a 37:19, and Andrew Butler third with 37:28.

In the women's race, Karissa Duke took the early lead, with Heather Parks and Sherri Martin moving past her at about the half mile mark. From then on the three women ran on their own, Parks winning in 41:04, Sherri Martin second in 43:17, and Karissa Duke third in 44:04.

Carl Kondrach from Barnesville, Ohio had no competition in the walk, winning easily with a 51:25 over Gary Bennett's 54:14. George Macek rounded out the top three in 57:54.

For the women's walk, Kathy Ervin took first in 1:03:47, Annette White second in 1:04:43, and Sherri Alig third in 1:08:38.

The Disabled Vets of America were well represented in the Handcycle division with C.Swaim taking first in an amazing 24:48. George Jackson and B.Sturm battled it out for second in 1:24:28 and 1:24:29. Roger Sack had some technical difficulties with his cycle, but still managed to finish in 1:30:39.

In just two years race director Hugh Stobbs has raised over $23,000 for the Disabled Veterans of America. The former race director of the Ogden 20k, Hugh really knows how to put on a race! Runners are treated to a top notch event followed by an outstanding luncheon banquet at Wesbanco Arena.

At this year's event, Corporal Fred B.McGee was honored. A Silver Star recipient, Corporal McGee recapped his story of bravery for the racers during the banquet. For a mere $25, you get a t-shirt, awesome race, a good meal, and donation to a worthy cause.

There's no doubt this event will continue to grow!