Saturday, October 16, 2010 -- Wheeling, WV
Auggie's 5K Run & Walk (iPO Event Id#: 12632)

2010: [Details] [Coverage] [Photos] [Overall Results] [Results by Class]

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Proud 'Pet' Parents Show Support

Story and photos by J.R. Petsko

There are a lot of great races out there which benefit a ton of great causes, but for me the Auggie's 5K Run and Walk really hits home.

See more Auggies Race Photos

The event proceeds go to the Ohio County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. My wife and I our very proud owners of two beautiful and spoiled dogs that were rescue pups. These two animals, Lucky and Anni, have changed our lives and we would not have it any other way.

When I was asked to cover the 12th annual event I was more than excited to do it. Each year, a large number of runners and walkers who support the cause just as much as I do, show up to take part in the event. Some even bring their four legged friends with them to do the race.

This year more than 230 runners and walkers showed up on the beautiful fall morning. The race takes place on the Wheeling's Heritage Rail Trail. Per usual, the walkers headed south on the trail and the runners headed north. After each of the fields took off on the out-and-back style courses, the runners and walkers would regroup just before reaching Warwood Middle School and cross the same finish line.

At 9:00 a.m. everyone was ready for the start. As the gun was fired, Ryan Johnson of Wheeling, WV jumped out to an early lead. Dennis Delbert of Bellaire, OH and Charlie Weaver of Belle Vernon, PA were trailing about 10 yards behind the leader. Dan Daum of Monongahela was just another few yards back from the runners in second and third.

See more Auggies Race Photos

Delbert was the first runner to return. He looked fast as he ran in his flame printed running outfit. Delbert took the win in a time of 18:46, improving on his 5th place finish from 2009.

Emerging to take the number two spot was Dan Daum (19:04). Hot on his heels was Charlie Weaver finishing in 19:16. Fourth overall was Mark Mallozzi of Pittsburgh, PA in 19:34 and rounding out the top five men was Ryan Johnson of Wheeling in 19:48.

For the women, Debbie Conner was impressive. Not only did the Dunbar, PA resident the female overall, but she finished eighth overall for the entire event. Conner finished in a time of 20:38.

Second for the women was Sherri Martin from West Alexander, PA who finished the 5K in a time of 20:48. Following Martin was Amber McCloskey of Wheeling with a time 24:02 to round out the overall top three women.

In the extremely large and competitive walkers division, Carl Kondrach of Barnesville, OH crossed first fast in 27:59.

Second overall in the walk went to Gary Bennett of Moundsville, WV in 29:52 followed by David Workman of Bellaire, OH third in 29:58.

For the women walkers, Valerie Crossley, finished first with a great time of 35:15.

Second was Derba Czap in 35:50 and in third was Karen Mercer with a time of 36:05.

It was another great event to support a great cause close to my heart. I hope to see you all back there next year!

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Race in Wheeling November 6!

Don't miss the First Annual Veterans Day 10K Run & Walk, now the Three Rivers USA Track and Field 10K Championship!

Race on Saturday, November 6, 2010 at Bridge Street Middle School in Wheeling, WV. All veterans and military personnel will have their entry fee waived and will receive all race amenities.

The race benefits the Paralyzed Veterans of America, and the entry fee is $20 until 10/29, then it's $25, so register now!.