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WEIRTON -- For three decades, the Weirton Board of Parks and Recreation has offered area runners and walkers a chance to challenge themselves and have some fun.
The annual Marland Heights 5K Classic took place Friday, beginning and ending at Margaret Manson Weir Memorial Park, with a course weaving through the neighborhoods of Weirton’s Marland Heights section.
“It’s 30 years and one goal,” Parks Executive Director Coty Shingle said, noting the race has always been about bringing the community together.
The history of the annual race can be traced to a former 10K event held in Weirton for many years before going on hiatus. It was brought back 30 years ago as a 5K, with other attractions incorporated in the years since.
More than 70 area residents took to the course Friday night, with participants divided among three events -- the namesake 5K race, a two-mile fitness walk and a series of youth fun runs allowing even the smallest athletes to test their time.
While acknowledging the turnout was smaller than in recent years, officials thanked those who showed up to take part.
“We thank everyone for coming out and supporting the Marland Heights 5K Classic,” Programs Director Chris Krishak said.
Official timing for the race was provided by GCXC Race Timing of Columbiana, Ohio, and results will be available through the company’s website.
Shingle expressed appreciation to the Weirton Police Department, Weirton Fire Department, Hancock County Ambulance, Hancock County AuxComm, the Weir Swim Team and Weir Basketball Team for their assistance before and during the race, with a special thanks to volunteer Marc Harris.
“He’s the one who lays out the course to help keep us on the rails,” Shingle said.
A reception was held following the race, with the top finishers receiving their medals and all participants and guests treated to refreshments.
Major sponsors for this year’s race were Tri-State Pharmacy, Starvaggi Industries and WVU Medicine Weirton Medical Center, with Silver sponsors Hancock County Savings Bank, Serra Village Retirement Community, Steel and Wolfe Funeral Home, Howard Hanna Mortimer Realty, Anthony J. Viola II, Weirton Lumber Co., Wine and Beverage Merchants of West Virginia, Mario’s Restaurant, Studio L, Graphics in Print, Weirton Shop N Save, Riesbeck’s Food Market, DeFelice Bros. Pizza, Gus’s Goodies and Blakemore Insurance.
Support for the Youth Fun Run and Fitness Walk came from Tomtreyco Inc. McDonald’s, FOP Weirton Lodge 84, Iannetti’s Garden Center, Top of West Virginia Convention and Visitors Bureau, First Choice America Federal Credit Union, Weirton Firefighters IAFF Local 948, WesBanco and the Law Office of David A. Mascio.