Hundreds run, walk in 10th Kewash half-marathon

WASHINGTON — Hundreds of runners from over a dozen states took off from the starting line of the Kewash Half Marathon, 10k and 5k at 8 a.m. Saturday, in the event’s 10th year since its inception.

Despite the event’s long history, it was a day of firsts for many in attendance.

Brad Wilkening, of Marshalltown, was a pacer for the half-marathon. He said it was his first time at the Kewash trail event, and his first time as a pacer.

“I’m a little nervous, but excited,” he said. “My daughter works for the Y, so it’s a family event.”

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It was St. Louis resident Denise Buehrer’s first time running a half marathon anywhere. She said she heard about it at an expo in Des Moines.

“I knew it was going to be a smaller race than St. Louis races, it just sound fun,” she said. “I’m just going to try to finish it!”

Washington resident Bethany Williams set her own personal record in the 5k, finishing in 31 minutes. She first ran on the Kewash at last year’s race.

“It’s fun to get out and see all the people, and experience it,” she said. “My sister runs the half marathon, so I’m here to support her as well.”

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The event is a fundraiser for the Washington YMCA, which donates half the revenue back into an array of community causes.

Y CEO Amy Schulte, who joined setup efforts at 5 a.m., said the day went well.

“It’s a perfect day for it,” she said. “The sun is shining, it’s not raining on us, and we’re just so excited.”

The half marathon’s first male finisher was Jeremiah Gerardy from Iowa City, at a time of 1:22:35, according to race results. Camryn Reeg, from Iowa City, won the overall female division with a time of 1:30:06.

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Comments: Kalen.McCain@southeastiowaunion.com