Assistant Editor Jerry Lindsey wrote this report and submitted the photos.
Rainy weather didn’t arrive in Morrison, IL, early enough to interfere with the 33rd Harvest Hammer 5K Run and Duathlon, sponsored by Morrison Rotary. Registration began early, at 8:00 a.m., so three children’s races could take place. The Third-of-a-Mile Wee Run (Pre K-2 years) entries began their dash at 8:15. Following at 8:30 a.m. was the Half-Mile Fun Run (Grades 2-5.)
The One Mile Challenge Run (5th-8th Grades) heard the starting gun at 8:30 a.m.
The crowd thoroughly enjoyed the efforts extended by the youth of the area, as they gave their all to make it across the finish line. Below are Fun Run entries completing a half-mile run.
The adult 5K Run and Duathlon saw over 350 runners gather for the 9:00 start, at Morrison High School, 643 Genesee Avenue. Walkers also participated in the 5K.
The Duathlon challenge requires each participant to complete a 3.1 mile (5K) run out and back and then complete a 21-mile bike ride, through the Morrison countryside. This event can be completed by an individual or a pair. One person runs the 5K and crosses the finish line; then the biker begins a 21-mile journey to the finish line.
Awards were presented to the top three finishers in various age groups of participants. See results at https://onlineraceresults.com/event/view_event.php?event_id=24500.
Harvest Hammer activities ended with a Color Run from Morrison High School to Main Street, where festivities related to Paint The Town were commencing. Adults and youths–wearing sunglasses and spotless, white t-shirts–jogged along the way, passing through clouds of colored chalk dust tossed by Morrison High School students. Runners became traveling, evolving pieces of art, creating a memory of fun associated with the Harvest Hammer and Paint the Town Annual celebrations.
Editor’s note: The file photo was taken in 2015, with Cheerleaders throwing the colored powders.
