Although the course for the Harper Classic 5k and 8k Run had to be altered due to flooding, the unwavering spirit and grit of those who participated did not. Runners typically race past the Muskingum River and wind through the Dresden River Park as part of the mapped course, but this year Mother Nature created a bit of an obstacle, but with some adjustments to the route the race was on.
The annual Harper Classic 5k and 8k Run honors the life of Sgt. Brad Harper each year in April. Brad sacrificed his life while serving his country in Iraq. This year the race was held the morning of Saturday, April 13.
The race started at the Dresden American Legion – Post 399, 1384 South Main St. Just under 50 clocked runners and walkers came out to participate with some making the trip from as far as West Chester, Richmond, Shadyside, Barnesville, and Hilliard Ohio.
James Kirker from West Lafayette was the first-place finisher in the 5k with a chip time of 23:19.5. He was followed by Carl Kondrach of Barnesville and Adam Wilson of Dresden in second and third places respectively. Graham Hudson from Columbus crossed the finish line in the 8k race with a chip time of 34:51.6 earning a first-place finish. Second and third places went to Nick Ripple of Nashport and Matthew Fellows of Dresden. The top female finishers were Rachel Dotson (chip time of 25:32.9) in the 5k and Abbie Wilson (chip time of 40:30.1) in the 8k.
