The 2019 Avalon lions Club 50K/50M Benefit run was a challenge for both runners and organizers this year. A rain storm Friday night forced the 50-mile course to be changed so that the runners did not have to run to Two Harbors and back on the muddy roads.
The 50K course was the same as in past years. Aid stations were moved, course markers were changed, and support teams modified. All the runners were impressed with the beauty of Catalina Island after the much-needed rain.
Bison and rainbows were sighted and photographed along the course. Pop Up shelters were provided where possible, but some aid station volunteers got wet as they took care of the runners. Thanks to all the Avalon residents that helped out in the rain and shine. Local Avalon resident Franny Finley, Avalon School teacher and running coach ran the 50K with a time of 7:07.58.
Jeniece Neville, Avalon High School graduate and Cal Berkley student ran the 50K with a time of 7:07.57 Complete race results may be found at Avalon5O.com.
First place in-the 50 Mile Race went to Michael Eastburn of Porter Ranch, California with a time of 6:17.01.
First place winner of the 50K race went to Oswaldo Hurtaod of Sun Valley, Idaho with a time of 4:03.30.
West Wood, a 16-year-old high school student from Arcadia, California, ran the 50K with a time of 4:51.S1.
Lee Martisko, 74 years young, from Pepeeko Hawaii ran the 50 Mile race with a time of 12:5l.53.Jill Wesiman, 64 years young, finished the 50 mile race with a time of 9:19.47. Bill Dickey, 79 years young, finished the 50K with a time of 12:45.45. Lorraine Geastz, 64 years young, of Fullerton, finished the 50K with a time of 6:01.01.
For the past 38 years this annual Benefit race has provided the Avalon Lions Club funds to help Catalina lsland residents. Scholarships, commuter books, food baskets, glasses, eye exams, hearing aids, new Haypress playground, Avalon School Athletic Team support are but a small part of the service the Avalon Lions Club provides to Avalon.
Avalon residents with a heart for community service are encouraged to join the Avalon Lions Club. For more information, call Dave Thompson at 310-702-713.
Burney Ramming is president of the Avalon Lions Club.
