Brought to you by WBIW News and Network Indiana
Last updated on Friday, October 3, 2014
(BEDFORD) - More than 600 people are registered to run or walk Saturday in Bedford’s first Half Marathon and 5K.
Organizer Chris Galloway says runners from 10 states have registered to participate.
Galloway says top contenders include Kyle Stansbury, of Springville; Scott Breeden, of Bloomington and Mike Eaton, of Louisville. Top contenders in the women's division are Lawrence County's Kathy Voigtschild and Rebecca Kleihege.
The downtown area will be bustling with activity Saturday at the starting line on the Bedford square.
Former Lt. Gov. Becky Skillman will drive the pace car as runners head west down 16th Street for their 13.1-mile trek through the streets of Bedford.
The field includes some elite runners who will finish in just over an hour and everyday runners and walker who will cross the finish line in two hours or more.
The course is a challenge with several hills and inclines. Participants will hit the first hill when they turn onto Brian Lane Way and ascend toward 19th Street. After touring the south end of town, participants will hit Mitchell Road and have a serious incline at Green Hill Cemetery. From there, the course heads north to Murray Forest Park for an in and out, and onto Sixth Street and then finally down J Street for the home stretch back to the square.
Course marshals will direct runners and walkers along the route and more than 120 volunteers will be passing out water at seven water stops along the route. More volunteers are needed.
Organizers are asking motorists to drive with caution if they encounter runners and walkers. Cones will be set up on Mitchell Road to separate participants from vehicles.
Participants can register Friday night at the race expo at the Boys & Girls Club of Lawrence County from noon-8 p.m.
Cash prizes will be awarded to the overall winners and the Lawrence County winners.
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