33rd Whitefish Lake Run ready to go

Thirty-three years later, the Whitefish Lake Run is one of the oldest foot races in the state and one of the most popular.

And considering the poor weather this spring, today's event is also likely to have the nicest racing conditions of the year so far.

Almost 700 runners are lined up to participate in the all-ages event, which is comprised of a 5k (3.1 miles) and 10k (6.2 miles). Race time is 8 a.m. and the forecast is projected to be just over 60 degrees with clear, sunny skies.

What started as a fundraiser for the local high school cross country team in 1977 has become a destination for competitors of all skill levels from across the Northwest.

There's only one change this year - both races are now officially sanctioned by USA Track and Field. The 5k now follows national and international rules and regulations along with the 10k, which has been sanctioned since 2007 and remains the USATF Montana State Road Racing Championship.

Race director Dean Gianos said an application was turned in to USATF for the special designation and because of the Lake Run's strong history and organization, the letter came back accepted.

"It's not something they just give to anybody," Gianos said of the sanctioning. "You have to do things right ... We make any changes where we think we can improve and every year we try to hone it so it's a little better race."

Last year, Carl Nystuen of Lakeside finished first in the men's 10k with a time of 32.27 and Whitefish's Loni Hanson won the women's race in 41.31. Former Flathead High standout runner Seth Grossman was the top finisher overall in the men's 5k with 15:54 and Vonda Garcia of Whitefish was the overall winner in the women's 5k with 19:46.

The races begin and end at City Beach. Awards will be handed out directly afterward.