The 8th annual Rush to Brush, sponsored by the University of Mississippi School of Dentistry, was held in Jackson at the University campus on Valentine's Day, Saturday, February 14 with a very nice group of runners, race walkers, and one-milers. This may have been the best weather ever for this race. Last year we ran in the rain, and two years ago we ran in sleet; consequently, an overcast day with a temperature of about 50 was nice, but the big hills are always present and prove to be a challenge to some of us. After a few instructions from MTC race director, Jack Ward, 255 runners and 85 race walkers were off and going. Caleb Hammons easily won with a time of 17.16. The first female finisher was Kelsey Sheitlin with a 19.23. Jody Ogletree and Teresa Crothers were the Masters winners, and Mark Lipking and Debbie Brasher were the Grand Masters winners. Elizabeth Howard and Caesar Hamilton took top honors in the race walk. Frank Polo and Carolyn Graham were the Masters winners, and long-time MTC equipment manager, Jim Myrick, and Donna Gonzales were the Grand Masters winners. The Pine Belt Pacers were well represented with Gary Thornton, Ray Henderson, Bridgett Jolly, Jim Jolly, and Phillip Wedgeworth all placing in their age groups. Pine Belt Pacer young runner of the year, Bo Henderson, also placed in the one-mile. After the race we enjoyed good food, fruit, and drink. In addition to the trophies, many people won nice door prizes, but none of the Pacers were so lucky. One of the best features of this race is a good place to have the awards ceremony and available showers. This is just another of the many great races that the Mississippi Track Club puts on each and every week. Complete results are linked. The next MTC event is next week, February 21. This race is sponsored by the South Group  to benefit the Blair Batson Children's hospital. As of last Friday 13, over 450 people had registered, so this should be one of the larger races in the state. © Phillip Wedgeworth