Hundreds run, walk in WX 5K

WOODS CROSS — The sun was just rising over the mountains when Charles Payne fired the gun signaling the beginning of the Woods Cross Memorial Day 5K.

The eager crowd of approximately 450 runners, walkers and bikers took off, including those waiting in line to register. The race was on, and since the event was free, registration didn't matter too much.

The crowded parking lot of the Woods Cross City Building was soon empty. The race crossed through near-by subdivisions and ended back at the start.

Tim Gustafson was the first to cross the finish line with a time of 17:11, followed by Stephen Hunter. Cody Despain was the third male runner in.

A few minutes later, the first woman finished. Karen Peterson came in at 21:56 followed Hillary Noel and Chalise Van De Grass, who finished second and third, respectively.

The runners were greeted with free water bottles provided by Bountiful Vineyard Church and received a free breakfast.

The 5K is part of the 10th annual Woods Cross Memorial Day Celebration. The race has become a tradition for many members of the community. This was the fifth year Teia and Dave Rogers raced with their two daughters; Bailey, 10, and Ashley, 13.

"It's a great way to kick off summer," Teia Rogers said.

With so many ways to participate, anyone can join in, including the dogs on leashes and infants and toddlers in strollers.

"It's fun because they'll let you ride bikes or roller blades," Dave Rogers said. "It encourages families to be together."

Bailey and Ashley Rogers rode bikes in the 5K for the past four years. This year they ran for the first time.

Michelle Neff crossed the finish line pushing a stroller with a picture of her husband taped onto the hood, her 2-year-old son running with her for the final stretch of the race.

She and her husband, Chamberlin, ran the 5K together last year, right before he left for active duty in June.

"I put the picture up because I know he's always with me," Neff said.

Her husband, a first lieutenant in the Army National Guard, is serving in Afghanistan.

"He keeps me running," Neff said. "If he can do that, serve over there, then I can run three miles."

Neff has gained deep respect for those who serve our country, having grandparents who served.

"A lot of people don't know what it's like to serve in the military," Neff said. "It's important to honor those who do."

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E-mail: hlebaron@desnews.com