by GEORGE KOCHMAN
The fall racing season opens with a bang Saturday morning at 10 with the 31st annual Celic Run, a four-miler at Clove Lakes run in memory of two former Monsignor Farrell HS runners who died under tragic circumstances. Marty Celic, a CHSAA sectional hurdles champ as a Lion, died while fighting a fire in Manhattan. His younger brother Tom perished in the September 11, 2001 terrorist attack on the World Trade Center. For the past 10 years, foreign-born athletes have dominated on a course that features a long upgrade during the second mile. Last year, two Ethiopian runners dominated the field while setting course records. Alene Reta won the men's race in a fast 18 minutes, 44.1 seconds. Alemthsay Misganaw won the women's title in 22:02.4. Prizes will be go to the top male and female finishers, and to the top three in 10-year age groups. Among the special and team awards are first three firefighters, first three law enforcement officers, and leading Clydesdale and Athenas finishers Team prizes go to the top firefighter teams, top male and female open teams, and top male and female masters teams. Additional awards will go to the top three-person male and female high school teams. There are also cash bonuses, with the overall male and female champions receiving $100. A course record is worth an additional $100. Runners may check in tonight at the Cargo Cafe from 6 to10 p.m. for pre-race registration and packet pick-up. Pre-entry fee is $20, with race-day entry fee $25. All pre-entries receive T-shirts, and the first 200 entrants will receive commemorative bandannas. There is also a two-mile health walk at 9:15 a.m., with a $15 entry fee. All registrants will receive the race T-shirt.
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