Thick clouds hovered in the sky, threatening rain clouds loomed overhead, and brisk wind whipped through the air.
Despite the ominous weather however, the Pueblo to Pueblo Run went on however, just has each spring for the past 20 years.
Hosted by the Cortez Cultural Center and organized by Joe and Susan Keck, the April 26 event turned out to be a rousing success, drawing 121 runners, who split between a 5K race and a half marathon event.
In addition to the running events that have become staples of the Pueblo to Pueblo over the years, this year’s event also hosted a 50-mile bike event.
Crossing the line first in the 5K run was Telluride resident Ryan Fliss, whose time of 22:16 was especially impressive in light of the cold conditions.
“This was my first time running this race,” said Fliss. “I came down with a group from Telluride. It was a lot of fun.”
Not far behind Fliss was fellow Telluride resident Marika Carradine, whose time of 25:09 was good enough to take top honors in the women’s 5K race.
“It was a nice course,” said Carradine. “I’m glad the weather held and it didn’t rain. “It was awesome to see the mountains in the distance.”
Also impressive in the 5K race was 12-year-old Justus Tudor, who crossed the line fifth overall.
“Running is very fun and a great way to stay active,” said Tudor, discussing the benefits events like the Pueblo to Pueblo.
Winning the half marathon event on the men’s side was Dolores resident Jared Scott (1 hour, 14 minutes, 24 seconds), while Telluride resident Becca Tudor took top honors in the women’s half marathon (1 hour, 37 minutes, 25 seconds).
Results for the bike event were unavailable at the time of publication.
As always, the Pueblo to Pueblo’s small-town feel, beautiful course and spirited volunteers left a positive impression on all involved.
Unfortunately, the weather this year was not ideal,” said Stewart. “People were happy though.”
Certainly a Cortez tradition, this year’s Pueblo to Pueblo once again turned out to be a wonderful event, which, in all likelihood, will return next April for a twenty first year.