About Lake Oconee news. (Greensboro, GA) 199?-current | View Entire Issue (Dec. 15, 2017)
Friday, December 15, 2017 Lake Oconee News Page B3 Participants of the 5K race dashed through Saturday's snow flurries and chilling temperatures during the 36th Annual Madison Christmas Rush Classic. Shellie Smitley/Staff Fun Run turns into dash through the snow Shellie Smitley news@lakeoconeenews.us Runners dashed through snow flurries and tempera tures in the mid-3 Os Saturday to compete in the 36th Annual Madison Christmas Rush Classic. The wet weather did not dampen the spirits of those who raced. Like many of the participants, this was not the first time Veronica Yoder of Monticello participated in the Rotary Club event, but it was the first time she raced through snowy conditions. Rotary Administrator Cindy England said it was the first time it had snowed in the event’s history. “Last year it was cold, but it was not snowing,” Yoder said laughing. “I have raced in the rain before, but never in the snow.” The snow flurries were part of a storm front caused by frigid temperatures com bined with moisture from the Gulf of Mexico that caused havoc throughout parts ofthe South. The storm left many in the Atlanta area without power. Although the wintry weather was a determent for last-minute registrations, more than 250pre-registered runners lined Old Post Road for the 9 a.m. and 10 a.m. races, England said. Rotary members handed out soup and hot apple cider to all who braved the chilly conditions. For many it was a fun, family-oriented event. Yoder attended not only to compete but also to support her broth ers, Byron and Ethan, who ran in the 5K. Byron placed first in his age category in spite of a meniscus injury in April. “My brother (Byron) and I just started runningtogether, and now we are trying to get Ethan to start running,” Yoder said. Competitive runners also puttheirbestfootforwardon the USATF certified courses. Kelly Johnson of Madison is a seasoned athlete who has run ultra-marathons. She competed in both races, placing first woman overall in the 5K and first place in her age category in the 8K. “I love racing, and this is just a great race,” Johnson said. “It was fun running in the snow.” Brian Goodwin of Decatur placed first overall in the 8K race for the second year in a row. “It was difficult going on the way out because the wind was going right in our faces, but when we turned around, it was a lot more manageable,” he said. “I feel accomplished (because) I beat my own record by about 50 seconds. “ Jordan Norville of Milledgeville placed first overall in the 5K, and Lauren Bach of Greensboro placed first woman overall in the 8K race. England said the event remains popular after more than three decades because of its “great out-and-back course” and because it is held during the holiday season. Every pre-registered participant received a long- sleeved t-shirt, and each runner who placed received a Christmas ornament that featured a historic building or home in Morgan County. The proceeds from the race benefit area organizations and scholarships. We know Water Filtration IT’S ALL WE DO! • Proudly serving the Lake Area for over 25 years • Widest range of quality products to meet any budget • Service plans available to meet YOUR needs • Let us inspect/service your existing system Household WATER SPECIALIST • WATER FILTRATION • % 706-453-1151 householdwater.com Water Quality, WE FIX BAD WATER! Brian Goodwin, 25, of Decatur placed first overall in the 36th Annual Madison Christmas Rush Classic 8K race for the second year in a row. Shellie Smitley/ Staff Twenty- year-old Veronica Yoder of Monticello braved the cold to place second female overall and first in her age group in Saturday's 8K competition. Shellie Smitley/ Staff Remarkable physicians connecting you to state-of-the-art care. At Augusta University's convenient Lake Oconee location, we deliver you the highest standard of care. From primary care physicians, to outstanding specialists to the latest technologies, you'll find a state-of-the-art facility that offers the best in medicine in a family-friendly environment. We provide you a seamless connection to renowned experts and the absolute latest advances of Augusta University Health.Together, we're dedicated to helping you advance your options, health and life. Greensboro Eatonton Augusta University Medical Associates at Lake Oconee Village 2011 Westend Drive, Greensboro, GA To find a primary care physician or specialist call (706) 453-9803. Or visit augustahealth.org/lakeoconee. Health AUGUSTA UNIVERSITY
