The 32nd Annual Boontling Classic 5K footrace will be held on Sunday, May 4th, starting at 10:00 am. The 3.1 mile race will begin and end at the Anderson Valley Elementary School, and is open to runners of all ages and fitness levels. Although many elite runners participate (the course record is 15:15), children as young as five years old start their running careers at this event. This year, the race will be called the Bruce Hering Boontling Classic to honor our long-time race director and very good friend, who recently passed away. Ribbons will be awarded to the top three finishers in each of the twenty age/gender divisions, as well as plaques for the fastest man and woman. In addition, there will be the popular drawing for prizes at the conclusion of the race. With so many items donated by generous Anderson Valley businesses, all runners have a good chance to go home with a prize, no matter how fast they run the course. For the past several years, the Boontling Classic has been combined with Anderson Valley Elementary School's annual "Day of the Child" celebration, which starts at the conclusion of the race. This family-centered event features, games music, food, and even a bike rodeo. Everybody is encouraged to stay for a fun-filled afternoon. The thity-two year history of the Boontling Classic is replete with legendary tales of hearty souls who combine the 5K race with some other exercise to make the day a real challenge. Some runners regularly bicycle 19 miles from Ukiah, and then run the race. One man rode his bike from Gualala, ran the race, and recorded the second fastest time ever. And then there was the 82 year old woman who ran over to boonville from Ukiah, and then ran the Boontling Classic! So, whether you are a tortoise, a hare, or an ironman, circle May 4th on your calendar for a day of fun-filled day of healthy exercise and celebration. Entry forms are available by phoning or emailing race director Mike McDonald at (707) 621-2701, flick@mcn.org.
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