Bands greet runners
Runners participating in the Mill Race Marathon not only saw a variety of sights around Columbus, but they heard a range of music along their trek.
Paradise City Band, based in Columbus, was among nine bands that performed for runners making their way toward the finish line, and could be found at Joe Willy’s at the corner of 11th and Washington streets.
The classic rock band performed hits such as "Summer of 69" by Bryan Adams and Pat Benatar’s "Hit Me With Your Best Shot" for those running past the bar and grill.
[sc:text-divider text-divider-title=”Story continues below gallery” ]Click here to purchase photos from this gallery
Becky Marsh, lead singer of Paradise Rock City, said she appreciated the opportunity to perform for runners and hoped it would give the group more exposure.
"We’re giving them a beat to run to," Marsh said. "It gives them that last extra boost."
Bikes brings smiles
Four participants in the 5K race took home more than a medal with them Saturday morning after being chosen as the winners of a bike giveaway.
And for those who looked on, it was a matter of waiting in anticipation as to whether their name would be called.
"Who’s ready to win a bike?" said Erica Oliver, who serves on the Mill Race Marathon planning committee.
That drew cheers from the audience, which cheered more as three local winners from Columbus, Chenna Bekkari, Sydney Lyons and Rick Chamberlain, were selected during the giveaway on the Finish on Fourth Party stage. William Dix, of Greensboro, North Carolina, also was selected.
Lyons, an eighth-grade student from St. Bartholomew Catholic School, was caught off-guard as her name was announced, bringing cheers from fellow runners around her. She had participated in the 5K race for the first time this year and said receiving the bike was a good consolation prize to go home with.
"I was extremely surprised," Lyons said with a smile.
Fewer medical issues
The number of runners seeking medical assistance at the medical tent, located at Fourth and Washington streets, was down this year primarily due to the cooler weather, officials said.
The tent had seen about 30 to 40 runners, who were primarily facing strains or minor vomiting this year, medical director Jen Hoskins said. About 20 to 25 medical personnel were on staff, including two ambulances that were stationed close by.
Heat stroke and dehydration were the two major issues faced by runners in last year’s race, which experienced hot and humid weather conditions, Hoskins said. However, those were less of an issue this year and Hoskins said she hoped there wouldn’t be any further issues throughout the day.
"We’ll keep our fingers crossed," she said.
Volunteers provide support
Mill Race Marathon volunteers could be seen at different locations along Washington Street, including more than a half-dozen who greeted runners as they crossed the finish line with cups of water, granola bars and bananas.
Columbus resident Renita Bettner has volunteered at the race every year with the exception of one. Her role this year was helping set up drinks for runners, she said.
"I just enjoy the day," Bettner said.
Other volunteers have also made it an annual tradition to step up and help runners, including Peggy Wampler, who received the Golden Hoosier Award earlier this year that recognizes senior citizens for their volunteer service.
"I volunteer at every opportunity I get," Wampler said.
Wampler was helping distribute space-age blankets to runners who wanted them and said it is fun being able to help with different activities.
She added that being able to showcase the city to other individuals participating in the Mill Race Marathon was another aspect she enjoys.
"It’s a party atmosphere," Wampler said.
Party time
Food and music awaited thousands of runners during the Finish on Fourth Party, while children got an opportunity to have fun of their own as well.
Bounce houses were set up for children, while different food vendors also used the opportunity to feed those seeking a bite to eat.
Coleman McLeod, a manager with Donut Central, said the business brought 250 cake cups and 250 donuts to the event, both of which were popular with those who stopped by the booth.
Other local restaurants, such as 4th Street Bar & Grill and Fresh Take Kitchen, were also offering menu items to visitors.
