LANDIS — Participants celebrated the life and memories of those who have battled breast cancer by turning out for the Landis Fire Department 5K run and walk on Saturday morning.
A perfect Indian summer morning rewarded runners and walkers with pleasant temperatures as they cruised the 3.1 mile course.
Anthony Nero of Spencer and Melissa Orr of Charlotte easily outpaced the field. Nero was the overall winner in 18 minutes and 17 seconds, while Orr was the class of the women’s field in 21 minutes and 56 seconds.
“I loved the course. It was the kind of course that works for me. I enjoyed racing here,” Nero said,
Orr added, “I drove out from Charlotte because I like races like this. This race certainly benefits a good cause and it had great amenities afterwards.”
Orr, who often races in Rowan County, is going to run her 65th marathon next weekend.
She has completed a marathon in 46 of the 50 states. Alaska, Montana, Wyoming and New Mexico are the remaining states.
Race director Andrew Morgan said, “We had a tremendous turnout and it appears that everyone had a great time. I would like to thank all the sponsors and volunteers who helped make this event possible. I am already planning for next year’s 5K.”
Barbecued chicken and pasta were served to participants after the race.
Awards were presented to the top three in 14 age groups for males and females.
Sponsors included Lafaves Construction, SA Sloop Heating and Air Conditioning, Midway Florists, Greg Ritchie Construction, Landis Public Power and Performance Chem Dry.
Complete results are available at www.salisburyrowanrunners.org