Western, Whitney Lead the Way at New Year’s Eve 5K
NEWBURGH, IN – Runners rang in the new year early on Wednesday afternoon as the annual New Year’s Eve 5K took over Friedman Park in Newburgh, Indiana. The race, organized by Tri-State Fitness, featured ideal running conditions as participants tackled the out-and-back course that showcased the newly opened trail to the Victoria Woods covered bridge.
Seventeen-year-old Gannon Western dominated the men’s field, crossing the finish line in 17:50.2 to claim top honors. Western’s impressive time gave him a comfortable margin of victory over second-place finisher Aaron Kitzman, who clocked in at 18:40.4.
In the women’s race, Lauren Whitney of Indiana took first place with a time of 22:31.7, finishing 12th overall. Whitney held off Katelyn Stroub, who finished in 23:03.3, to secure the victory.
The race drew competitors of all ages, from 12-year-old Q. Mutz, who cracked the top five in the men’s division with a time of 20:08.2, to 50-year-old Neringa Clark, who placed fourth among women at 24:16.0.
All finishers received a custom PVC finisher medal that doubles as a keychain, while overall and age group awards were presented following the race. The 1:00 PM start time allowed participants to complete their 3.1-mile journey with plenty of time to prepare for evening New Year’s Eve celebrations.
Race director Brandon Barrett expressed enthusiasm about the event’s success and the year ahead. “We are already looking forward to next year’s New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day 5Ks!” Barrett said.
Top 5 Male Finishers
- Gannon Western, 17, IN – 17:50.2
- Aaron Kitzman, 40, IN – 18:40.4
- Nathan Smith, 31, IN – 19:32.1
- Cole Marshall, 27, IN – 19:40.7
- Q. Mutz, 12, IN – 20:08.2
Top 5 Female Finishers
- Lauren Whitney, 34, IN – 22:31.7
- Katelyn Stroub, 37, IN – 23:03.3
- Kendall Edwards, 15, IN – 24:07.1
- Neringa Clark, 50, IN – 24:16.0
- Anna Blessinger, 23, IN – 24:24.3
The New Year’s Eve 5K is one of several races organized by Tri-State Fitness throughout the year, with the Freakin’ Freezin’ Race scheduled for January 18 as the next event on the local running calendar.