By GERRI GRADY
CHEROKEE RUNNERS
The Cherokee Runners have been very active during June. In addition to competing in the Run on the Wild Side 8K at the Asheville Arboretum, members have also competed in the Down Hill at Dawn Half Marathon, Run for Kids’ Sake 5K at Warren Wilson College and the Braveheart 5K in Franklin. Group runs have been conducted, along with hill sessions and speed work sessions. A group run also took place at Cade’s Cove with runners choosing either a 4-mile, 8-mile or 11-mile course. Local group runs can begin as early as 5:30am or in the evenings at 6pm. Group runs usually begin at the Flame (entranceway sign to the GSMNP), but may start at Round Bottom in Big Cove or at the Tow String Bridge.
Participants in the Couch to 5K program and some members of the Cherokee Runners are shown (left-right) back row – Matthew Climbingbear, Michael Henson, Sean Grady, Cynthia Ledford and Deborah Conseen-Bradley; front row – Christi Climbingbear, Luke Climbingbear, Gwen Thompson, Marlene Arch, Candy Bradley, Caroline Oocumma and Clara Wahnetah. (Photo courtesy of Gerri Grady)
The Couch to 5K program continues to be well attended and trainees are progressing quickly. They will participate in their first 5K on Wednesday, July 4 with the Cherokee Runners Sunset 5K that will begin at the Cherokee Indian Fairgrounds. Participants in the Couch to 5K program have received their “Cherokee Runner in Training” tee-shirts for their participation in the Monday/Wednesday/Friday sessions.
The 4th of July Sunset 5K will begin at 7:45pm with the fun run starting at 7:15pm from the Fairgrounds. The first 150 registered runners will receive a tee-shirt and fun run participants will receive a ribbon. Anyone can join the Cherokee Runners. Walkers are welcome!
