Runners came from 27 states with some traveling from as far away as Texas and Colorado to participate. Race Day Events timed the event which included a 5k race and a USATF Certified 10-mile race. The fastest times for the 5k and 10-mile races by age and gender categories were recognized onsite with an awards ceremony. Full race results can be found on the Cades Cove Loop Lope race results webpage.
Best 10-mile chip times in the women’s division were Maria Heathcott of Evansville, IN with a time of 1 hour, 11 minutes and 01 second; Ashlynd Miller from Athens, TN 1:14:23; and Rachel Sneed from Owens Cross Roads, AL 1:16:40.
Best 10-mile chip times in the men’s division were Jonathan Pahren 59:35; John Baker from Allston, MA 1:01:25; and Jordan Webb from Charlotte, NC 1:04:40.
Best 5k chip times in the women’s division were Avery Vanlandingham of Hebron, KY 22:37; Jaime Carpenter from Shepherdsville, KY 28:39; and Diana Koza from Knoxville, TN 29:31.
Best 5k chip times in the men’s division were Koby Perkins of Corbin, KY 19:32; Ryan Cleary from Nashville, TN 20:56; and Jose Martinez from Knoxville, TN 22:26.
“We’re so grateful for the support of our runners, dedicated volunteers, and generous event sponsors. Thank you for standing with us in preserving the beauty and spirit of Great Smoky Mountains National Park,” said Race Director and Friends of the Smokies Special Projects Manager Lindsay Howell.
Sponsors for the event included Ole Smoky Distillery, Axle Logistics, Buddy’s BBQ Sevierville, PCS, River Sports Outfitters, IHOP Pigeon Forge/Sevierville, 21st Mortgage, Turner Homes, Mellow Mushroom, and Denso. Additional Support was provided by Blount Partnership, Eddie’s Health Shoppe, English Mountain Spring Water, Little River Trading Company, Townsend Gateway Inn, and Zen Evo Chocolates.
For more information about this annual event, please visit friendsofthesmokies.org/LoopLope.