By David Yon
For most of my running career my only race experience in Bainbridge has been the Pine Run 20K. That is one of my favorite races and it should have been a strong clue that there are other hidden treasures around Tallahassee’s south Georgia neighbor. But no, it took Greg Waddell’s last minute e-mail invitation to get me out of bed for this one. It turned out to be well worth the drive. The unseasonably cool weather and bright blue skies combined with the Flint river to create a great setting for this race. Race directors Rick Allen and Angie Harrell put on a top quality event that coincides with the Bainbridge Art Festival, a week long event. I was surprised to learn this race has been around for nearly 10 years. The certified course is fast and runs along the Flint River for a while before climbing the one hill on the course just after the mile mark. It then loops through downtown before returning to the river.
Tim Simpkins took off his Popeye uniform long enough to run an outstanding 16:15 for first place. Tim just does not know how to act his age – you would never know he was over 40 given his race times or his costume dress. Tim Unger followed with a 17:23 for second place, while Greg Waddell led the local contingent with a 17:31. Mary Jean Yon was the first woman home, running 21:07. Lyra Ratmeyer was the first Decatur county finisher and second woman overall, finishing in 24:13. Click here for complete results.
This race makes Bainbridge 3 for 3 in my book after you throw in the Fall Classic 10K, another good event. The next one to try is the Memorial Day 5K.