With temps in the 70's and a mild breeze, timing seemed perfect for the annual Ripley County Chambver of Commerce 5K Walk/Run on the Versailles Square on Saturday morning, June 23.

Eighty energetic and happy entrants took to the streets while setting their own pace to enjoy some racing by running or walking, doing some visiting and claiming some of the other rewards of taking part in some good wholesome exercise.

Winning the overall 5K run was (South Ripley HS Raider Cross Country and Co-ed T&F coach) Jim Cole at age 41 of Versailles. Cole finished his 5K Run in an elapsed time of 18:54, with many of his XC team runners closely behind him.

The first place overall female runner to finish was Amie Tighe, age 36 of Aurora.

In the 5K Walk, Steve Mathes of Versailles, age 48, led the men's pack across the finish line with his time of 37:42.

First to cross the finish line among all female walkers was Anna (Toops) Hurst, age 32 of Osgood with her time of 38:57.

The event found many participants of the past with other obligations this year and they were missed, however, new faces joined the crowd and hopes are that they might make this an annual outing for themselves in the future.

Amy Thomas, David Baugh and Linda Chandler headed up the event with Greg Stuart of Greg@StuartRoadRacing.com hired as the official scorer and race finish tabulator for the race event.

Town of Versailles Marshall Joe Mann led the racers safely around the circuit while controlling traffic, providing for a safe and smoothly operated event.

As the race progressed, the Versailles Lions Club grilled their BBQ chicken and made way for the annual feast while automobile enthusiasts aligned the streets around the town square with their displays to be judged in the annualy held car show, sponsored by the American Legion.

The complete list of 5K participant places of finish can be found on the internet by going to www.Stuart RoadRacing.com under the road racing tab.