New Harmony Shines Bright at Inaugural Firefly Festival Run/Walk

NEW HARMONY, Ind. — The inaugural Firefly Festival Run/Walk drew more than 200 participants to New Harmony on Saturday morning, marking a new addition to the town’s annual events calendar. The event, presented by Historic New Harmony, featured 2-mile and 4-mile courses that wound through the town’s historic and scenic pathways.

The weather conditions for the race were favorable, and participants noted the organization of the event.

Brandon Barrett, the race director, expressed satisfaction with the turnout. “What a turnout for the inaugural Firefly Festival Run/Walk presented by Historic New Harmony!” Mr. Barrett said. “We had just over 200 participants this year and hope to make it even bigger next year. We hope you all enjoyed the scenic course. Of the 96 races we have produced, this has been our favorite.”

Race Results

2-Mile Run/Walk – Top Finishers

Top 5 Male Finishers:

1. Evan Shuff (Male, 33, Ill.): 11:41.9
2. Jordan Lutz (Male, 36, Ind.): 12:56.3
3. L. Knepp (Male, 10, Ind.): 15:14.8
4. Jay Kohl (Male, 14, Ind.): 15:22.6
5. C. Boyer (Male, 10, Ind.): 15:24.0

Top 5 Female Finishers:

1. Makenah Delph (Female, 17, Ind.): 15:10.3
2. Melissa Knepp (Female, 42, Ind.): 15:17.3
3. Braelyn Barrett (Female, 15, Ind.): 15:37.1
4. C. Robbins (Female, 12, Mo.): 16:02.7
5. Katie McKeon (Female, 13, Ind.): 17:35.8

4-Mile Run/Walk – Top Finishers

Top 5 Male Finishers:

1. Kyle Sweetland (Male, 34, Ohio): 23:54.2
2. Corey Kimball (Male, 35, Ind.): 25:09.3
3. Lucas Neuffer (Male, 32, Ind.): 25:16.7
4. Patrick Hartz (Male, 16, Ind.): 27:01.8
5. Rojelio Diaz (Male, 20, Ind.): 28:29.8

Top 5 Female Finishers:

1. Andrea Holscher (Female, 41, Ind.): 31:47.1
2. Nicole Champine (Female, 54, Ind.): 34:24.2
3. Shannon Mallrich (Female, 48, Ill.): 34:47.3
4. Shellee Starks (Female, 58, Ind.): 37:01.2
5. Haley Brauser (Female, 30, Ind.): 38:07.6

The Firefly Festival Run/Walk is expected to become an enduring feature on New Harmony’s annual calendar, combining athletic participation with the town’s distinct ambiance.