Bonita Classic coming Saturday
By By Jeff Byrd / staff writer
May 3, 2002
Area runners will again get to show their stuff when the Bonita Classic gets underway Saturday at Bonita Lakes Park.
The 5-kilometer run, the 2-mile walk and the kids fun run are all being sponsored by the Meridian Restaurant Association. All proceeds from the run will benefit the Wesley House Community Center. The event begins with registration at 7 a.m. The 5K race is again sanctioned by the Meridian Athletic Association.
Director of the Bonita Classic is Faith Vaughn. She says runners will be able to compete for $3,200 in awards, prizes and giveaways.
A total of 106 runners competed in the 5K run. Forty seven ran in the two-mile walk. This year, Vaughn says there will be more entries in the walk, but the number for the 5K race is still undecided.
The defending overall male and female champions are expected to be in the field. Ian Hajek won the men's race with a time of 17:17. Frannie Childs is the defending women's champ after posting a 21:47 time in last year's event.
Food will be provided for the participants by Outback Steakhouse. Tommy's Seafood Restaurant will be the sponsor for the Kids' Fun Run which will be for youngsters 1-12.