The final installment of the 10 Weeks to the 10K running series concluded Tuesday night with the graduation of all its participants.
Those in attendance where treated to light appetizers before going on one last run through the 10K course. In addition, runners where given a T-shirt which read "I survived the 10 Weeks to the 10K."
Still, the importance of the race was the main issue. Race director Carl Hatfield led a question and answer discussion on some last minute tips and what to expect with registration on race day.
With three days left before race day, there is still some things runners can brush up on Hatfield said.
"As far as any serious training goes, there's not a whole lot you can do now," Hatfield said. "There are still some logical things runners can do, though.
"Little things that might not seem that important can make a big difference on Saturday."
Among those Hatfield suggested was for runners to get ample rest in these final days leading up to the 10K. He also advised against overeating on the night before the race and drinking plenty of fluids Friday night.
Approximately 60 to 70 runners took part in this year's 10 Weeks to the 10K series. Each week participants listened to various topics discussed by some of the area's leading authorities in running.
Still there is more the runners can learn.
Friday night, Dr. Kitty Consolo and former Boston Marathon winner, Bill Rodgers will speak at the Fairmont State College Gaston Caperton Center in Clarksburg at 6 p.m. followed by former Olympic runner, Don Kardong.
"If you came to (the 10 Weeks to the 10K) just once or twice, then you're still going to be pretty ill-prepared for the race," Hatfield said. "Our whole purpose for having this was to actually motivate people to run more.
"We want to try to promote fitness and wellness. That's sort of our mission statement with this program. We're pleased with the turnouts we've been having and hopefully someone will learn from this and continue to run."
Sports writer Mike Nutter can be reached at 626-1444.
