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The Over The River Run 5-miler was held in Vicksburg on Saturday, August 28 with 718 people finishing the various races. There were 378 five-mile runners, 259 race walkers, and 81 one-milers. The course is an out and back over the old Mississippi River bridge into Louisiana and back. The finish is a steep uphill. The race was about 15 minutes late getting started due to the fact that so many people showed up a little late. The heat factor was over 90 with the humidity near 100%, making this the hottest race of the year so far. The heat didn't bother Chuck Engle who finished first with a 28:47, which was over a minute ahead of Rob Oates who came in second. Amy Paine, the first female, was the fifth overall finisher with a 31:20. Many of us old guys were complaining about our times. Willie Powers was over three minutes slower than last year. I was over a minute slower than the last time I ran this race, and several others were telling the same story. Terrell Knight and Mirian Alread were the Masters winners. Sherman Stanford and Deborah Grubbs took Grand Masters honors. Debbie Cheney was the first race walker with a time of 47:01, which was faster than 200 of the runners. Kirby Hendrix was the first male race walker. Charlie Montague and Tina Branon were the Masters winners in the race walk, and Bennett Randman and Emily Lee were the Grand Masters winners. The after-race festivities are as good as can be found at any race in Mississippi and maybe neighboring states. There is a live band and plenty of food. We had shish kabobs, baked beans, potato salad, watermelon, water, and soft drinks. I have never been to a race with a centerpiece decorating the table and a chef in a big hat. This is a very challenging race, and the heat made it even more so. Thanks to the Mississippi Track Club and all of the people in Vicksburg who helped put on this quality event. Complete results are attached. © Phillip Wedgeworth
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