The speediest of the speedy folks were quick to get to the finish. Not surprising since an amazing feast of local foods provided by local farmers and food purveyors was being prepared by Heidi Benjamin and her crew of helpers at the finish. David Sinclair (', Waitsifeld) chalked up the fastest overall time for the men's field of the four-mile race followed by Peter Kling (', Waitsfield) and Eli Howard (', Burlington) with Jessica Bolduc (', S. Burlington) taking the honors for the fastest woman in the four-miler followed by Kari Dolan (', Waitsfield) and Laurie Sigmund (', Winthrop, MA). A couple of folks from Colchester took the top spots in the eight-mile division. Megan Valentine set a quick pace for all the women and Sam Davis was untouchable for the men's division.
Second and third places for the women's field went to Tracy Straub (', Waitsfield) and Karin Ward, respectively. Silver and bronze in the men's division were awarded to William Eschholz (', Richmond) and Robert Rosen (', Warren). Robert Rosen was also the top local Valley finisher in the eight-mile race. The walkers' field was strong this year with Aurelie Wood finishing the course first, followed closely by 12-year-old Christian Frey. Special honors went to Jim Leyton, who also completed the walking course.
The Dash was followed by the annual Kid's Fun Run which featured some spectacular starts as the 'Dashers' of the future lined up to compete. MRPA board member, Matt Strassberg not only broke into the top 10 for the four-mile race (which was dominated by teenagers!) but got back to the start area just in time to organize the fantastic fields of kids.
Timing and results were provided by Granite State Race Services. Complete results can be found at www.coolrunning.com.
"The Mad Dash would not be such a successful and special event without the help of many, many local sponsors, volunteers, helpers, and enthusiastic supporters. Above all, without the special contribution from the Neill family...there would be no course! The Mad River Path Association would like to thank each and every one of you who helped out this year, came to run, or supported us in spirit or in sponsorship. The community support given to the Path is really overwhelming. As foliage season kicks into high gear, the MRPA invites you to get re-acquainted with the Path. It's a beautiful time of year to enjoy the great outdoors," spokesperson Barclay Rappaport said.
