| he 26th annual Boontling Classic 5K footrace/walk took place at the Anderson Valley Elementary School on Sunday, May 4, 2008. It was not too warm - perfect running weather. The 124 entrants (5 more than last year) were led by Josh Woods of Ukiah, who finished the 5K (3.1 mile) course in 18:49, 25 seconds ahead of Michael Butler of Philo, who was not far ahead of Sergio and Anastasio Gutierrez. The women were led by Nancy Kinchela of Little River, whose 21:26 was four seconds faster than Rebecca McLean of Ft. Bragg. A new record was set in the "Reverse Division" as Peter Field walked the whole 3.1 miles BACKWARDS in a little over an hour, knocking 10 minutes off of Garrett Larsen's record set last year. Three "legitimate" records were broken this year, all in the women's divisions (are they really gaining on us, guys?). The new record - holders are: Girls (9 and under): Raina Scioccheti (23:57) of Ft. Bragg. Women (50-59) : Deni Lee (23:04) of Ukiah. Women (60-69) : Fermina Bojorquez (31:49) of Philo. After the run, all participants entered in the drawing for over eighty prizes (including bottles of bubbly, apple juice and gift certificates) donated by local businesses, insuring that almost everyone got a ribbon or a prize. Thanks to all who made this another stellar Anderson Valley Event. Race Directors: Mike McDonald and Bruce Hering |