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In the 31st running, the Gate River Run’s Hart Bridge provided 12,085 runners with the sensation of being literally “swept off their feet”. Known as The Green Monster, it ominously glares at mile 8 of the 9.3 (15K) course. The climb is steep, long, and unrelenting. This year, it joined forces with the wind, and proved even more heartless, throwing competitors around with little control. Even at ground level, wind was the nemesis, with a constant in-your-face attitude, plus many were drenched at a San Marco seawall due to the white-capping St. Johns River.
2008 will be special for other reasons. This was the first time the 15K finished in the Jacksonville Municipal Stadium, AKA The Gator Bowl. The Jumbotrons allowed the runners and the supporters to see the finish line action on the giant screens.
Despite the obstacles, locals had some swift times. Especially noteworthy, Charles Strickland brought home a trophy by placing third in his age group. He is also a Gate River Run Streaker, meaning he finished all 31 events.
15K results:
Charles Strickland 1:08:24
Tiffany Cochran 1:12:16
Ron Crosby 1:13:08
Cheryl Monroe 1:14:26
Robin Smith 1:17:12
Doug Vinson 1:19:39
Moi Monroe 1:19:43
Russell Keaton 1:24:23
Mary Woodruff 1:24:24
Matt Gourley 1:25:35
Anna Champion 1:26:06
Kelli Gourley 1:30:08
Allen Smith 1:31:57
Clay Culp 1:32:10
David Cook 1:33:26
Billy Gillis 1:40:25
Roger Williams 1:42:47
Elizabeth Monroe 1:55:28
Janna Summerall-Smith 1:56:11
Phyllis Cochran ran the 5K Charity Run in a time of 33:17
Article written by Ron CrosbyPhoto:
Front Row (L-R): Tiffany Cochran, Phyllis Cochran, Rochelle Varnadore, Robin Smith, Cheryl Monroe, Elizabeth Monroe, Mary Woodruff, Jill Bryant, Scott Bryant
Back Row (L-R): Clay Culp, Allen Smith, Janna Summerall-Smith, Roger Williams, Billy Gillis, Moi Monroe, Doug Vinson, Ron Crosby
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