Log in

Frozen turkeys run 5K

Posted

Thanksgiving mornings can be spent one of two ways: preparing a turkey for the oven or preparing to run a 5K. Those who started their Thanksgiving Day with a 5K found themselves a little frozen this year. Even with temperatures in the low 30’s, many participants found themselves at the starting line of the 2021 Gobble Wobble.

The Webster County Health Unit hosted their 11th annual 5K race on the cold morning of Nov 25. The race and registration was free to the public with the first 200 participates receiving a t-shirt. The Webster County Health Unit’s administrator, Scott Allen hopes the event inspires the public to focus on individual wellness.

“The pandemic is not going anywhere, but we are figuring out ways to navigate through it. One of those ways is by really focusing on the health of our bodies individually,” expressed Allen. “I think this event is a good way to drive that home.”

Allen, noted many exciting changes made to the race. For one, the unit partnered with a new charity this year.

“In the past, it has always been a fundraiser for the school food program, but the one blessing that has come out of COVID is those food programs have received a lot of federal support. So there was not as great of a need,” explained Allen. “So what we decided to do was change it from being a fundraiser to a FUN-raiser this year.”

The unit partnered with ZuZu’s house, a local charity in Webster county. Zuzu’s house is a resource for vulnerable teen girls between the ages of 17-20. Participants had the opportunity to donate before and after the race. The charity’s president, Nicholas Inman was just as excited about the partnership. 

“We are really glad to be able to partner with the health unit this year, and it’s a little cold to be here this morning, but very exciting. We are really glad our community can come together to help those in need,” said Inman.

Marshfield’s very own Zachary Mitchell, 15, won the race, just coming off of his incredible cross county season. It was obvious that it runs in the family as Mitchell was followed by his younger brother, Jake Mitchell,13. Third place was awarded to Samson Stalker, 14. The trio blew spectators away their speed and youth. 

Zachary Mitchell accredits his high-school cross country coach, Gage Myers for his success.

“He was my cross country coach,” added Mitchell. “I probably wouldn’t be this good without him.”

When asked what Mitchell’s favorite part of the race was, his answer came to no surprise.

“I would say the finish, because it was freezing,” laughed Mitchell.

It may be a few days before the participants thaw out, but the 2021 Gobble Wobble was a great way to kick off the holiday season and burn extra calories. 

 

Comments

No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here



X
X