Just as the fog lifted Saturday morning, Santa Claus arrived in the “Nick” of time to officially start the Wallace and Graham Santa 5K Run/Walk for Charity.
Slightly warmer than usual temperatures didn’t keep the jolly, round man away, though participants were disappointed in the lack of any snow flurries.
“I’m sure that I can get it right next year,” said Race Director Mark Martin, who had promised snow for the event. “We’re just glad to do our part to benefit Rowan Helping Ministries and continue to grow the event that helps those in need.”
Adam Cornelius paced the field with a time of 17 minutes and 58 seconds, followed by Josh Readling in 18:46 and Bobby Aswell at 18:50. Meredith Abramson led the women’s field with a time of 21 minutes and 44 seconds, with Melissa Orr close behind in 22:05 and Acquawon Stallworth third in 22:47. Grant Shafer led the male fun run in 3 minutes and 40 seconds, and his sister Grace beat the other girls with a time of 4:38.
Martin was pleased with the turnout, especially with a lot of other races in the area. “A good percentage of the field ran their first ever 5K, shortly after completing the Salisbury Rowan Runners class for beginning runners. This is always one of our most festive events. All participants and volunteers received a quality dri-fit shirt with a Santa theme, and award winners got a huge commemorative one-of-a- kind ornament. Thanks to all our sponsors, volunteers and especially the Millbridge Ruritans along with Locke and Mt. Ulla Fire Departments for making the event a success.”
Sponsors in addition to Wallace and Graham Law Firm were Gay’s Chapel United Methodist Church, Rowan Regional Medical Center, Stout Heating and Air Conditioning, Godley’s Garden Center, Millbridge Ruritans, Caldwell Paper, and Yang Family Dentistry.
Complete results are available at www.salisburyrowanrunners.org