Sunday, December 6, 1998 -- Morgantown
Back Bay Snowflake Sprint 5K
Story and photos contributed by Carrie Wickline, additional photos by Eric DeBoni.

[Coverage/Recap w/Pics] Pictures: [Set 1] [Set 2]
[5K Run Results] [5K Walk Results]

With the sun at their backs, the racers head out on a strangely warm December afternoon

The fourth annual Snowflake Sprint did not hold true to it's namesake this year with temperatures on race-day in the mid-sixties. The unseasonably warm weather brought nearly 300 runners and over 50 walkers to Morgantown and helped raise money in the fight against Spina Bifida. Krepps Park was bustling Sunday afternoon with runners and volunteers of all ages, and activities began with a 1 mile fun run for the younger participants on hand.

10-year-old Katlain Grimm reminds us of the great satisfaction that comes with finish a race (and winning an award!)

The 5K course rolled through residential side streets of the Touchdown City managing to avoid steep climbs the area is famous for. The race path, much like a maze, began and ended at Krepps Park directly outside the WVU Coliseum. The starter's pistol fired promptly at 2pm with runners jockeying for position on the narrow roadway. Walkers were invited to challenge the course just minutes after runners disappeared over the first incline.

In just over 16 minutes from their start the first runner came into sight of the finish line. John Reynolds of Fairmont broke the tape at 16:40 with a comfortable 8 second lead over second place finisher Kenny Beerbower, also of Fairmont. Rounding out the top three overall finishers was Bob Nedley of Brownsville, PA with a time of 16:51.

A race complete with a chef... now that's something to run for!

The first female through the chute also posted an outstanding 12th place overall. Charity Wachera of Morgantown led the women with an impressive 18:38 run. Over a minute passed before second place female finisher, Kimberly Dorman of Morgantown, crossed the line. Elkins native Ryann Metheny took 3rd place for the females posting a time of 20:28.

As hundreds more participants maneuvered the home stretch, lines started to form for the famous post-race feast. The local Back Bay restaurant sponsored a lunch buffet complete with soup, pasta, and desserts to satisfy runners and non-runners alike. Race director John May organized another fantastic event for the Morgantown area, and any weekend visitors, to enjoy!