Hundreds run in Kewash half-marathon

Nearly 570 runners showed up in Washington from across the country for the Kewash half-marathon, 5k and 10k on Saturday morning. Organizer Teri Hartzler said the day went well.

“It’s chilly this morning, but still the sun’s out, and the wind’s slow, so we’ve had a great turnout,” she said.

Those in the race said they were just as excited.

“What makes it special (is) it’s local and it brings the community together,” said Angie Alberts, a pacer in the half-marathon. “Racing is a special family, it’s a very positive and encouraging environment. Everyone has similar goals and we have a lot of fun.”

Many participants made their own competitions within the event. Emergency responders from around the county continued a tradition of competing for the “Public Safety Top Dog award,” which was won by the Washington Police Department this year.

“Members of the Washington Police Department teamed up to complete the 13-mile course in 1:46:10 and ahead of the team from the Wellman Ambulance Service,” a post on the department’s Facebook page said. “The WPD relay team was made up of Sgt. Ben Altenhofen, Sgt. Jason Chalupa, Officer Ethan Hansen, Officer Chris Raymer and Investigator Brian VanWilligen.”

Employees of Washington County Hospitals and Clinics had a “Beat the CEO challenge,” with prizes for whoever finished the half-marathon before their boss, Todd Patterson, who said the hospital was happy to help sponsor the race.

“We think running contributes to good health and healthy lifestyle choices, so we like to promote this,” he said. “Within our own organization we have 68 people just from Washington County Hospitals and Clinics today … if people can beat my time, they get surprises.”

Washington State Bank was another major sponsor, offering $1,000 to the male and female record-breakers of the half-marathon. Bank President and CEO Sue Basten said they were proud to support the run.

"It brings people into the community, we help support the economic development,“ she said. ”They do other things besides just come into town … A lot of people don’t even know where Washington is possibly, so we’re bringing people in from all over the country and introducing them to our wonderful town. It’s a great event.“

For the myriad local groups benefited by the race’s proceeds, the event is a much-appreciated source of support.

“We’re so appreciative, this community has been phenomenal,” said Krista Smeins, whose daughter’s surgery will be partially funded by income from one of the booths near the starting line.

Comments: Kalen.McCain@southeastiowaunion.com