For a first-time race, the organizers did everything right. From the 1,099 registrants, to the five-year age groups, to the fabulous prizes, to the fresh bagels and cream cheese, everything clicked. Even the rain held off until the end of the awards ceremony. On a day when many Washington area runners were going for a longer distance, almost one thousand runners and walkers came out to West Potomac Park on Sunday, April 19, 1998, to support The Brain Tumor Society in its inaugural 5K race.

Brian Daugherty, 38, came down from Annapolis to win in a decisive 15:29 on a new, flat, out-and-back course. Mark Thompson, 29, from Alexandria was second, and Gregory Werner, 22, from Silver Spring, took third.

In the women's race, Odenton, MD resident Gloria Santarpia, 36, beat Kim Mihalyo, 25, of Arlington, by 19 seconds, 19:36 to 19:55. MCRRC's Michele Harmon was close behind in 19:59.

About 25 eager kids turned out for the quarter-mile kids run, and proudly displayed their medals afterwards. Volunteers were rewarded with shining smiles as they placed the medals around the kids' necks.

Many of the participants were drawn to the event because a friend, relative, or co-worker has a brain tumor, evoking memories of the Glen Brenner 5K, a now-defunct race that brought thousands of new racers into the fold. Many people came out to support the cause, and found they enjoyed racing, running, or just walking with friends. This race was the inspiration of Dana Daczkowski, a brain tumor patient. Her sister, Nike Beddow, served as race director, assisted by a dedicated committee of volunteers.

Post-race, runners enjoyed fresh bagels and cream cheese, bananas, oranges, Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream, and Deer Park water while listening to music and entertainment by John Nolan of radio station Z104 FM. Many random prizes were awarded, culminating with box seats and a picnic lunch for four at the Preakness.

Beddow announced at the end of the awards ceremony that race organizers met their fund-raising goal and will donate $50,000 to The Brain Tumor Society to fully fund one research grant. She also said that the race will return next year. Mark your calendars now for April 18, 1999!