CLARKSBURG -- One record has stood for five years, the other for just 363 days.
Many of the world's top road racers will attempt to set a new standard today at the running of the sixth annual Greater Clarksburg 10K. The race begins at 8:30 a.m. in front of the Clarksburg Fire Station on Main Street and finishes in front of the Harrison County Courthouse.
The women's race record has held up since the first Greater Clarksburg 10K in 1997, when Kenya's Hellen Kimaiyo won in 32:59. James Koskei of Kenya broke the men's record last year with a time of 28:30.
Conditions should be favorable for a run at the records. Recent rains have cooled temperatures somewhat, but the course should be dry today.
"It looks like we're going to have good weather," Greater Clarksburg 10K race director Larry Mazza said. "It's supposed to be overcast, which is perfect running weather."
Elite runners, which should include 2000 Greater Clarksburg 10K champion Reuben Cheruiyot, won't be lacking for motivation. A $1,000 bonus will be awarded to the fastest male and/or female who breaks the current course record.
In addition, a $15,000 bonus will be earned by any male or female who breaks their respective current American records for 10,000 meters on the road.
Competition, however, isn't limited to the men's and women's elite fields. Money will be awarded to the top three American and West Virginia runners, and to the top three finishers in the 40-49 and 50-over age groups.
Following the 10K will be the fifth running of the Kids K, which takes place along Main Street. New to the Greater Clarksburg 10K race day is the 2 Miler, a shorter run scheduled to begin at 10:30 a.m. at the 10K's start line. The 2 Miler, like the 10K, will feature a double loop, but will avoid the steep grades of the featured race.
Staff writer Anthony Hanshew can be reached at 626-1444 or by e-mail at ahanshew@exponent-telegram.com