Saturday, March 30, 2013 -- Glen Dale, WV / Reynolds Memorial Hospital
Webark 5K Run & Walk (iPO Event Id#: 14552)

2013: [Details] [Coverage] [Photos] [Overall Results] [Results by Class]

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Nine Years of Saving Animals

Story and photos by Julie Black.

Happy pups at Webark 5K.

On March 29th WTRF-Channel 7 reported that Smitty, a homeless tabby cat, was recovering well after two surgeries. He may eventually be fitted with artificial feet thanks to Webark Estates, the beneficiary of the Webark 5K. It is stories about Smitty, special funds that save dogs from euthanization, and countless others that help people to realize that Webark is so much more than just a no-kill shelter. To many, it means finding a friend for life.

In 2004, the first Webark 5K had little over 200 participants, in 2013 it has grown to more than 560 runners and walkers and don't forget lots of dogs.

Open to runners, walkers, and leashed pets.

It is also part of the Taking Strides Towards Better Health Grand Prix (grandprix.healthplan.org).

Many familiar race faces from the West Virginia and Pennsylvania area show up to run the series. Webark is the 2nd race of the 30 event series, and one of the four most popular.

Thirty three years old David McCollam of Bridgeport, WV has been a busy runner this month. On March 17th he won the Grafton 5-Mile Run for the fourth time in a row with a blistering time of 24:47. He won the Webark 5K leading by more than a minute the entire race, crossing with a time of 15:09, a new course record.

Cedric Robinson is a local runner in the area who most people know. He came close to running a sub 4-minute mile at the Ogden Mile last year and won it with ease. On Saturday he cruised to second at Webark finishing in 16:16.

Michael Ibrahim and his dog finished 3rd overall.

Michael Ibrahim, Assistant Professor of Saxophone at West Virginia University, was the first to finish with his dog in tow. He was third overall (18:15).

Hannah Surface, a Cross Country Athlete at East Richland High School, was the first female to finish with a time of 20:10. She was 13th overall. Karissa Duke (20:52) was second and 17th overall. Michelle Hessen (21:02), came in third for the women.

After the last walkers and dog trotters were in, racers enjoyed free pizza and pasta provided by Domino's Pizza. Shelter, free parking, and more were provided by Reynolds Memorial Hospital. Thanks to the many sponsors who provided the door prizes for the random drawings.

How can I help?

Webark Estates, Inc. is home to dogs, cats, rabbits, and rats. Find out more about how you can help or adopt a pet today on Webark's website.

Do you like helping animals? Mark your calendar for the 15th Annual Auggie's 5K Run and Walk on Saturday, October 12, 2013. It benefits the Ohio County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (OCSPCA). You're welcome to race or watch with your pets, just have them leashed.