With only 400 participants each year, the appeal of this annual Priest Lake race is that age group and overall runners can win cool awards in a smaller field, and its family friendly with different distances happening at the same event. “It’s one of the most scenic venues of any race I’ve ever done,” says two-time spring run racer Mike Overby. “You’re running right along the Lake much of the time, and it takes place during the Memorial Day festivities for the town of Coolin with a wonderful craft and artist show going on right at the start/finish line, which is great for family and friends that aren’t racing. The food venders and beer garden are a plus after the race!”
The Spring Festival Run includes a half marathon and 10k and 5k distances, and all of the races are chip timed. Half-Marathon runners get big custom Priest Lake finisher medals, age group division places get custom medals, and overall winners take home place trophies. And all participants get a technical fabric finisher shirt.
“Last year was my first time participating in the spring race,” says runner Stephanie Luby. “I plan on doing it again this year. Why? Because Priest Lake is beautiful, and there is a community/family feeling that I felt last year. Seeing all the support for the individuals receiving the placing awards gave the sense of support and community.”
To sign up for the Sunday, May 24 event held at Coolin, Idaho on Priest Lake, visit priestlakerace.com. //
