CANAL CONNECTION 10K
RRCA 10K Central Region Championship
Sunday, Nov. 3, 2002 - 11 a.m.
Utica, IL

As if the prospect of running on a crushed limestone path beside ducks, geese, deer and turkey in their natural habitat isn't enough, perhaps the plethora of food offered at the finish line will grab your attention. The organizers of the Canal Connection 10K know that as much as runners love to run, they love to eat afterward, and this race seems to offer it all.

In this 20th anniversary race put on by the Starved Rock Runners, Ltd., set for Sunday, Nov. 3 at 11 a.m., runners are bused from Utica, IL, to LaSalle, where they begin their run: one mile on the streets of LaSalle, 4.5 miles on the restored Illinois-Michigan Canal towpath, and a final .75 mile on the streets of Utica.

This scenic, fast, well-organized race takes runners away from traffic and offers a wonderful opportunity for participants to revel at the natural wildlife of the region. Not to mention the free pizza, bagels, muffins, bananas, Gatorade bars and beverages at the finish.

According to race director Jon Bastuck, top runners entered so far include Scott Klassen of Bloomington, four-time wiunner Bryan Glass of Springfield, Lars Juhl of Bloomington, three-time women's winner Peggy Shaddid of Peoria, Chris Walsh of Campus, IL, also a former women's winner, and Kelly Kaminsky of Leland, IL.

Also serving as the RRCA 10K Central Region Championship race, 108 trophies will be awarded to the top six runners, top masters runners and age-group winners. Entry fee is $22 through race day. Utica is located 70 miles southwest of Chicago approximately three miles north of Starved Rock State Park. Arrive in Utica early to allow time for transportation to LaSalle via bus.

For more information, contact Bastuck at 815-223-8988 or bastuck@mindspring.com.