Rose City 10K,
By David Yon
Sarah Docter-Williams ran the fifth best performance by a woman in Rose City history to claim her fourth (1997, 1998 and 1999) Rose City title and a dozen roses. She bested fast improving, Kate Wallace 36:22 to 37:59. Sarah also holds the fourth best performance, 36:07 in 1998. The women’s course record belongs to Darien Andreu who ran 34:57 in 1983. Jody Spangler took the morning off from coaching duties at FSU and ran a 32:05 to lead the entire way and win the men’s race. Second place belonged to Matthew Dobson who ran 32:28. Tim Unger finished sixth overall in a time of 35:07 to win the masters title, while Carolyn Mather (not sure about spelling) was the women’s masters winner in a time of 42:05.
Twenty-four years of history have produced some fast times in this race, with the 25th fastest time being 31:55 by Jessie Close. The 25th fastest time for women is 38:14 by Colleen Joiner. Rose City boasts one of the only sub 30:00 10K road finishes around this area. In 1987 Herb Wills set the course record by running 29:57 to win the race. The race has only known one set of directors – Jim and Carol Story – and they have brought consistency and quality to the event. The course has remained virtually unchanged during all of those years. Next year promises to be a very special year as the race celebrates its 25th year. One of the unique aspects of this race is the one mile race. Awards are given to children and runners over 50 years of age. It is the most impressive array of kids you will see. Last year over 300 participated. This year Brookwood won the Craig Hasty Award for most participants when approximately 91 kids finished the one mile run.
It was a perfect day for racing with the temperatures at the start in the 50’s, I would guess. Seeley Lovett added to her collection of PR’s with a time under 45:00 minutes. James Dexter also jumped on the PR wagon with a 42:32. I think Kate Wallace’s time might have been her best in awhile as well.
All times are unofficial. Results are on the way.