By Sue Moore
Come Saturday morning, May 9th, you will see people swiftly running and briskly walking through the streets of Vicksburg as the 28th Annual Hearty Hustle 5K Walk/Run takes off. The race begins at 9 a.m. at the high school, loops through the village of Vicksburg and back to the stadium where Athletic Director, Mike Roy announces participants.
“It’s an enduring event that sets the standard for 5K races. This event is the hallmark of fun, health, and fellowship,” says Tonya Nash, the chief organizer of the event, as the community education director for the district. She heads a coalition of partners including Vicksburg Community Schools Foundation, Bronson Vicksburg Outpatient Center, the Village of Vicksburg and the Vicksburg Community Schools.
“All participants enjoy the community vibe of the race. The runners appreciate the professionalism of the race; family members and friends cheer on participants; and the Baby Bolters (4 years and under) always bring a smile.”
The 5K walk/run course winds through the scenic streets of the Village magically missing the railroad tracks. The fun walk is approximately one mile in length and invites folks to just get out and get moving, according to Nash. The entry fee is $11 ($9 for senior citizens and elementary students) if registering online before May 7. It goes up to $25 on race day, so it pays to think ahead and register now at www.runsignup.com/vicksburgheartyhustle.
New this year, nine registration scholarships have been donated to the three elementary schools as rewards for amazing effort and perseverance in Physical Education. The recipients this year are: Keyana Szabo, Anthony Holleran, Avram Lipford, Olivia Curtis, Lucy Glerum, Dylan Zemitans, Reed Tassell, Katara Rosol, and Anna Meschke.
The Tina Hayward Inspiration Award recognizes a male and female runner in the master class, sponsored by Leon Hayward. Always a surprise is the Hollenbeck Volunteer award winner as well as the Carl Bennett Photo Moment award, which is given at the end of the race to someone who has run the race in creative attire or has a light-hearted attitude. Mac Sports Timing will be ensuring everyone has a posted time, and the 36 top and divisional winners are acknowledged.
All proceeds from the race will go toward the Vicksburg Community Schools Foundation for the many functions it sponsors during the school year. It is going to be a great event – the Vicksburg Hearty Hustle – one beat.one step.one race.