SUNBURY — The old song goes, “you can get yourself clean, you can have a good meal,” and if you’re fortunate enough to live in the Sunbury area, you can compete in the YMCA’s annual 5K run.
“This is the 22nd year the race has been held,” said physical program director Toni Mudge.
The competition, which is not limited to members of the YMCA, opened with a cheer Saturday as Mudge announced the 9 a.m. start of the race. Young and old alike filled in at the starting line in anticipation of the start.
“Anyone under 18 needs permission from a parent,” said Mudge. “Other than that the race is open to anyone who wants to run.”
The 22-year-old race benefits the YMCA, a non-profit organization. The money raised will help improve facilities, as well as fund next year’s race.
“We are a non-profit group,” said Mudge. “This race will help us keep our place updated.”
The 5K started with an almost party-like atmosphere as the DJ blared the latest Backstreet Boys song and 110 runners took to the starting line. The group was composed of locals and the occasional out-of-towner.
“It is mainly people from the area, but we have a few from outside of the region,” said Mudge. “We did have one coming from Philadelphia.”
This year the race had 65 pre-registered runners, with much more expected to come the day of the race.
“People’s plans change,” said Mudge. “We see at least 20-30 extra people sign up the day of the race.”
The race, which lets local Y members compete against fellow runners, gives the YMCA a chance, not only to keep the facilities updated, but to give back to the members and locals of the area.
The staff, made up of volunteers and YMCA employees, provides runners with fruit and water before and after the race.
“We make sure everyone has enough water,” said Mudge. “The runners get water at the halfway point of the race and the finish.”
Along with keeping runners hydrated, the staff gives out door prizes like YMCA memberships and discounts at local hotels.
Milton’s Steve Templin finished with a Big Brown type lead over the field, finishing in 17:20.
Joelle Reed was the first female contestant to finish the race with a time of 19:54:27, which was slightly faster than last year’s female mark of 20:07:28, set by Kara Stahl.
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Sunbury Y holds 22nd annual 5K
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