Bobcat 5K Provides A “Real Race” For Area Athletes And So Much More! (Posted 08/16/20)

(All Photos submitted) Above: The Pack

(By Bobcat Cross Country Coach Keith Murtha)

August 1st saw the return of the Bobcat 5K and Kids Race. With so many races and other events being canceled due to the pandemic those who were able and up to the challenge were so excited to have a “real race.”

Approximately 50 runners from up and coming elementary runners to the high school cross country runners, many who had their track season canceled, as well as open runners in theirs 20’s, 30’s and beyond as they say, participated.

The grass and trail course were in good shape and Matt Woolcock from Cranberry high school, a returning state finalist, led all runners in a time of 17:10. Bobcat and returning state finalist himself, Gavin Hoover was second and Open runner Jeremy Troup tangled with the young bucks finishing third overall.

The results were similar on the ladies side, Kalynne Ziegler of Cranberry High School, another returning state finalist, ran to a first place finish in 22:05 followed by Sabrina Hepler of Emlenton and Bella Scott of Clarion, a state qualifier herself, taking the bronze.

The Kids Half Mile Race had a small field but lots of excitement, as Corrine and Connor Hepfl, children of Clarion-Limestone assistant Erin Hepfl ran onto victory!

I was so impressed by the way the community rallied around the event. Times have not been easy for local business or town and our community really supported us and we couldn’t be more appreciative.

Local business like Janey, the Eagles, Absolute DJ services, the Carpet Barn, C&A Trees, Schmader Construction, Brian Fox Sawmill, Troese Law Office, Siegel Insurance, Lutz Concrete, Zacherl Motors, The FUN Bank, Burford & Henry, Munsee Law, All American Awards & Engraving, Conzumel, Central Electric, Marshal Law and Clarion County Park. At the end of the day, this is what it means to be from the Clarion Area!

Like all of us the Bobcats are continuing their preparation and looking forward to a September 15th, first meet but this was a great kick off thank you to all who supported the Clarion Area Cross Country Boosters for their hard work!

(Congratulations to all the athletes and to all those involved in making this event a huge success!!!!)