The Harper Classic returned after having to postpone the 2020 race due to COVID restrictions. The annual 8K (5 mile) run and 5K memorial run/walk is held in November to honor the life of Sgt. Brad Harper, a 1998 Tri-Valley graduate, who sacrificed his life while serving in Iraq on August 3rd, 2005.
The race started at the American Legion Post 399 in Dresden and continues through parts of the village and on the bike trail along the Muskingum River. This year there were about 75 combined participants ranging in age between nine and 77. 14-Year-old Dalton Crozier from Dresden won the 5k with a pace of 5:43 and a chip time of 17:43.7. Lori Ladzinski from Granville came in first place in the 8k race with a pace of 6:58 and a chip time of 34:51.4. The event brought athletes from all over the state and a few from outside of Ohio as well.
The Harper Classic is organized by Nick Beach of Muskingum Multisports Race Timing & Management Services. Visit muskingummultisports.com to see information about other upcoming races in the area.
