Sunday, October 15, 2000 -- Spencer, WV
Black Walnut Festival Nut Run 5K
Story and photos by Pam Anderson

[Details] [Coverage] [Overall Results] [Pic Set 1] [1999 Event Coverage]

Getting a little "Nut"ty at the Black Walnut Festival

Thousands of specters swarmed to the little town of Spencer this weekend for the 46th annual Black Walnut Festival. The picture perfect weather, with plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures, made for an enjoyable time of taking in the many sites and sounds of the festival. The festivities included plenty of arts and crafts, food, a grand parade and a band competition.

Helping to top off the weekends events was the 5K "Nut" Run. This challenging 3.1-mile course starts outside of Spencer on Charleston Road, where runners sprint through the first mile of curvy flat roads only to be met with the challenge of "the hill", Lick Fork Hill that is. This hill will make or "lick" the runners times as they head for the finishing stretch. But after conquering the hill, runners again enjoy the flat road leading them down Black Walnut Avenue to the finish line in front of the Court House.

A race to the finish in downtown Spencer

Taking an early lead was Larry Taylor of Fayetteville, crossing the finish line for a the overall victory, with a time of 16:41. Larry, finishing his second race win of the weekend commented, "it's hot". Congratulations on his wins at the YMCA 5K in Charleston on Saturday and for the "Nut" Run 5K on Sunday.

Crossing the finish line with a time of 20:45 for a Female overall victory was Stephanie Eastman of Spencer. Stephanie is a Roane County High School Senior where she is a member of the track team. Great job Stephanie!

Sponsoring the 5K "Nut Run" is Spencer's own, WVRC Radio and Bob Zadianic. After the awards are passed out and the festival starts to wind down, he was headed to the Funnel cake booth for one last festival treat. If you happen to miss the fun this year, be sure to check out the 47th Annual Black Walnut Festival 5K "Nut" Run next October.