BY STEPHEN JUDD

Over 160 runners participated in the Mansion 5K on Saturday, April 18th. The forecast of rain affected the turnout; however, the showers didn't dampen the spirits of these TCM enthusiasts!

The race began in front of Dick's Sporting Goods and continued around the Mall, out onto Gloster, up to Barnes Crossing, and back around the perimeter of the Mall.

Defending Champion, Jim Brown, was the overall winner. The 30 year-old ran the race in 17:23.9 - a pace of 5:36/M. Amazing!

A special "thanks" goes out to Barnes Crossing Mall, the Tupelo Police Department, the Tupelo Running Club, ChampionChip Timing, and to all the local businesses that backed this charitable event. We are also very appreciative of our corporate and individual supporters who sponsored individual participants.

The donations are still coming in and it looks like we have already raised between $85,000 and $100,000 for the Mansion!

This is just the beginning. Next year, we will no doubt have between 300 and 500 runners. In five years, I predict that this event will draw 1,000 runners and become one of the largest 5K races in this region!

I want to thank Burton Gaar for his outstanding coordination and promotion of this event. He has worked tirelessly for the past several weeks to make sure that it was a complete success.