Inaugural Barn Burner 5K raises $2,000 for Bath parks

by Laura Bednar

The inaugural Barn Burner 5K race at North Fork Preserve drew about 30 participants running the course in September.

The top two female runners were Melinda Verner in first place (l) and Hanna Steinker in second. Photo submitted.
The third place female finisher was Rita Miller. Photo submitted.

According to Bath Parks Board member John Landis, people ran a cross-country style 5K along the North Fork Preserve’s “Triple Loop” trail, as well as a new trail section along the North Fork of the Yellow Creek. The race raised approximately $2,000 for the Bath parks.

The top three male and female finishers won gift cards to Cold Stone Creamery. The top three males were Brian Pratt (first), Jacob Starr (second) and Cole Bury (third). Pratt’s time was 18:29. The top three females were Melinda Verner (first), Hanna Steinker (second) and Rita Miller (third). Verner’s time was 26:22.

“People enjoyed running mostly in the woods through the new North Fork Preserve,” said Landis.

Township Trustee Elaina Goodrich said the race was well received. “We would hope to increase the number of participants if we do it in the future,” she said. ∞

Main photo: The top three male finishers were (l-r) Jacob Starr, second place; Brian Pratt, first place; and Cole Bury, third place. Photo submitted.