Story by Jessica Bostick, Contributing writer
Bommanna Loganathan, professor of environmental/analytical chemistry, runs in the Murray Half Marathon Saturday.
The fifth annual Murray Half Marathon put on by Murray-Calloway County Hospital took place Saturday.
Proceeds went to the Anna Mae Owen Residential Hospice House.
The turnout this year was more than ever before with more than 750 runners from 16 states, numerous volunteers, spirit teams and several spectators who came to show their support and cheer on runners.
The winner of the half marathon was Daniel Kirwa with a time of one hour, 10 minutes, 56 seconds. Kirwa also won the half marathon in 2012 with a time of one hour, five minutes and four seconds. The female winner was Marion Kandie with a time of 1:28:04.
Spirit awards were also given in the form of prize money towards the organizations represented. The prize money amounts ranged from $500 for first place to $25 for 12th place. The winners were:
- First place -Delta Sigma Theta
- Second place -CCMS Cheerleaders
- Third place – Murray State African Student’s Association
- Fourth place -The Eagle Explosion
- Fifth place -CCHS Beta Club
- Sixth place – CASA by the Lakes
- Seventh place – Kappa Delta
- Eighth place – Memorial Baptist “Bee Strong”
- Ninth place – Alpha Delta Pi
- 10th place – Young Professionals of Murray
The 13.1 mile path was designed to show runners the best Murray has to offer. The path went through the courthouse square, the park where Playhouse in the Park takes place, industrial areas and Murray State.
“Another wonderful race,” said the half marathon’s Facebook page. “Thank you so much to our 750 runners, our countless volunteers, our amazing spirit teams and spectators and to the residents of Murray/Calloway County who support our efforts. Stay tuned for the big announcement of next year’s race date once we have it set. Thanks again for all your support.”
The Anna Mae Owen Residential Hospice House provides comfort to patients at the end of their lives. It offers a calm environment to patients and encourages visits from family and friends.
It’s funded solely on donations and depends on events such as the half marathon to provide funding.
Last year the marathon brought in $45,000 to the Anna Mae Owen Residential Hospice House project.
The marathon this year had over 750 runners participate, 50 more than last year so the total amount of money raised is expected to approach last year’s total.