The Geist Half Marathon and 5K is not your typical race, according to runners who participated in the second annual event May 16. And that’s why they like it!
“It’s the first time I’ve finished a race and got a burger and a beer,” said experienced half-marathon runner Maggie Grady-Hooper.
The Carmel resident has been running in the 500 Festival Mini Marathon for the last six years, but after experiencing the Geist Half for the first time, she’s decided to stop doing the Mini and switch exclusively to the Race Around the Reservoir next May. Along with the festive post-race atmosphere, Grady-Hooper likes that she can move more freely on the scenic race course in Geist.
This was the second year Robin Marks has run the Geist 5K with daughter Claire. She loves the encouragement from volunteers and residents along the route.
“It’s so much fun when the people come out of their neighborhoods and they’re cheering for you. You put a little more spark in your step and keep running,” Marks said.
The enthusiasm was especially strong at the finish line as supporters lined both sides of the lane, making this everyday mom feel like a top athlete for a day.
“You feel like you’re running through a barrage of support; it’s kind of euphoric, really,” Marks adds.
More than 700 community members volunteered their time to make the race a success.
“This is one of the largest events in the community, so we wanted to be a part of it as an opportunity to serve,” said Harvest Church Pastor Bradley LeRoy, who was part of a group of 26 volunteers from the church who where handing out Gatorade and water to thirsty runners.
A trio of cross country runners from Lawrence Central — Austin Galm, Carter Marshall and Sean Gassen — said they enjoy the challenge of the hilly Geist course.
“I think it’s more challenging than the Mini Marathon course, but I like it,” Marshall said.
The rain held off Saturday morning just long enough to finish the race, with the overcast sky making for near perfect running conditions. Both races were sold out, with 6,000 registered runners, 25 percent of whom were under the age of 18, thanks to running programs in the local schools.
Katie Holmstrom, age 3, and her sister Alyssa, 5, were among the youngest runners in the 5K event. Parents Scott and Colleen Holmstrom ran the 5K last year and decided to get the whole family involved this time around.
“They wanted to do it,” says Colleen, who finished the race walking hand-in-hand with Katie.
Proceeds from the Geist Half Marathon & 5K will go to support fitness programs in the local schools. Major beneficiaries include Lawrence Township School Foundation and Hamilton Southeastern School Foundation, along with other school and community organizations.
