By LESLIE COLLINS
Northeast News
October 31, 2012 

Hundreds of runners will test their endurance and pack the winding roads of the Cliff Drive Scenic Byway this Sunday for the 27th Annual Cliff Hanger 5K/8K race. Last year, 1,300 people participated in the 5K and 8K races.

Sponsored by the Kansas City Track Club, the event is also an RRCA State Championship Event.

Two different start times will be held for competitive runners and for recreational runners/walkers.

For competitive runners, the 5K and 8K race will begin at 8 a.m. and for recreational participants, the race will begin at 9 a.m. For each race, awards will be presented to the top three male and female finishers and also to the top finishers in the following age groups: under 14; 14-19; 75 to 70; and 80 and older.

The race will begin and finish at the east entrance off of Cliff Drive, 4600 Gladstone Blvd., Kansas City, Mo. Parking is available at Gladstone Elementary, 336 N. Elmwood Ave., Kansas City, Mo. Following the race, an awards ceremony and free pancake breakfast will be held at Gladstone Elementary for participants. Cost is $5 for non-participants.

Those interested in participating are encouraged to register online at www.cliffhangerrun.com.

Registrants may pick up their packets and register from noon to 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 3, at Garry Gribbles Running Sports, 8600 Ward Parkway, Kansas City, Mo. Participants may also register the day of the race at Gladstone Elementary beginning at 7 a.m.

Race benefits local charities

Years ago, the race began as a fundraiser for the pre-school at Assumption Church and the University of Missouri-Kansas City’s school for the handicapped. The tradition of giving back has continued over the years and several charities benefit from sponsor and individual donations each year. This year’s charities include Northeast Neighbor to Neighbor, Gladstone Elementary School and the Missouri Special Olympics.

Dr. Elaine Joslyn of NEighborhood Family Care in Northeast founded Northeast Neighbor to Neighbor in 2005, which financially assists Northeast residents with a specific, short-term medical need. Since its inception in 2005, Neighbor to Neighbor has helped approximately 40 Northeast residents with their medical needs.

For more information about the Cliff Hanger, visit www.cliffhangerrun.com.