Nearly 6,200 competitors made for the largest field of participants in the race’s long-established history notwithstanding catastrophic storms that ripped through southeastern Michigan and its surrounding areas during the wee hours prior to the start.  Power was lost, roads flooded, homes destroyed, but apart from a troublesome tree, the second in Hal’s four-year tenure, the event in its entirety was an outstanding success.

“A downed tree delayed the start of the half marathon by a half hour,” explained Wolfe.  “It was odd because it wasn’t down when the course was checked numerous times,” including an hour before the race was to begin.

Aside from the woody wonder, calm prevailed with cloudy skies and cool temperatures for the festivities of the day.

First up was the United States Track & Field Association’s Master’s Long Distance Running 10K National Championship, a proud honor and the first bestowed in the event’s long-standing history.  In line with USATF standards, the Masters 10K began a full two minutes before the non-championship 10K race.

Fifty-four of the finest master runners in the country battled it out for nearly $5,500 in feasible prize money.

Leading the ranks with blistering speed, 31:38 was 44-year-old Tracy Lokken of Marquette, MI.  Seconds behind were 47-year-old, Dennis Simonaitis, Utah and 45-year-old Paul Aufdemberge, Redford, MI in respective times of 31:44 and 31:57.

Simonaitis and Aufdemberge led from the start, but Paul commented, “We knew Tracy was back there.”

“I take a more conservative approach and run within myself,” Lokken revealed.  “It’s like coming out to a carnival.  I come out for the ride, enjoy it and gage when it’s time to put the hammer down.  I was pleased with the outcome, and the course was beautiful.”

Laurel Park, 47 of Ann Arbor claimed the women’s title in 36:20 as she edged Michelle Simonaitis, 44 of Utah by twelve seconds.

“Michelle has amazing leg speed!” Park exuded.  “I knew the course though and maintained momentum on the hills.”

Outstanding performances were par for the day, some in unique form.  Eight members of the University of Michigan Running Club ran the non-championship 10K as part of myTEAM TRIUMPH, http://www.myteamtriumph.com/ an athletic ride-along program created for individuals who would not otherwise be able to experience endurance events.

“I love to be out running fast!” glowed fourteen-year-old, Alex Darr of Troy.  “I have a good team!”

Eastern Michigan Graduate and Ann Arbor resident, Josh Perrin, 24, claimed third overall in his very first half marathon competition.

“The course was beautiful, and I ran great – for the first ten miles.  I really hope to run it again and win it,” Perrin pronounced and added, “I loved finishing on Main Street!  While climbing the hill, I was thinking about the best place to get a beer after the race!”

Seeing that the “Taste of Ann Arbor” coincided with the event, a multitude of options were just a stone’s throw from the finish!

The 38^th annual Dexter Ann Arbor Run will be held on June 5^th and “while no major changes are planned,” Wolf has advised, “Register early! The races will all likely fill up before the expo!”

And bring your chainsaw – third time's the charm.