They're off and running at Gene's Run for Special Olympics

Sunday, July 19, 1998 -- Morgantown
12th Annual Gene's Run for Special Olympics

[Results]

For many, Gene's Place means hot dogs and beverages, but for the running community and Special Olympians, Gene's is the sponsor of a 4 mile race in Morgantown, WV, one evening every year. Participation in this year's race was great even with Mother Nature turning up the thermostat a bit. The course, for those who aren't aware, starts about a block from Gene's Place, winds out Wilson Ave. to Morgantown High School, where it twists and turns on it's way towards White Park. From the park, the course doubles back upon itself with the finish outside the front door of Gene's. This years race was won by Mike Dudley with

Brad Coffman and Chas Mick enjoy some post-race refreshments

an impressive time of 20:11 while Ed Frohnapfel (21:12) and Brad Harrington (21:47) came in second and third. In the Womens division, Charity Wachera scorched the competition with a time of 22:49 with Carisa Dudley (24:17) and MAGP Series points leader Julie Warner (26:03) rounding out the top three. Support for the race was exceptional with split time announcements and plenty of water stops and free showers along the course. Race participants were treated to their choice of beverage and refreshments at the post race gathering while the results were tallied. Thanks go out for the efforts of those presenting prizes and trophies and expending great amounts of energy to yell out names, hopefully there will be a PA system for next years race. Many participants, including the author, chose to sample the delectible offerings from Gene's after the race. Proceeds from the race benefit the Mon. County Special Olympics.

Getting ready to chase a police car	The anticipation at the start	Hey, is that Brad Coffman in the crowd?	Trying to drink while running is always a difficult task
Chas Mick trying hard to stay cool	Water, water, and more water	Finishing the race with the sun at his back	and another finisher
	and still another	Wilma Groover seeks the shade after racing