Published: June 24, 2009 11:52 pm      

75-over runners get own category

Frank Lumberg’s voice has been heard.

The Super Quik 5K in Flatwoods is the latest area road race to add a 75-over age category.

“Yea, that works,’’ said Lumberg, a 76-year-old Ashland resident who had petitioned for the new age division.

The 14th annual Super Quik 5K returns Saturday, with starting time set for 8 a.m.

Lumberg moved to the area in 1984 and has been a regular in area races since ’86.

“All these years, they have been stopping at 65-over,’’ said the good-natured Lumberg. “I’ve been writing letters with my application talking about discrimination against older runners.’’

Lumberg ran in the Run By The River two weeks ago and won the 75-over division “because I was the only one.’’

Lumberg said a friend once asked him how he wins so many trophies. His reply: “You just have to outlive all the people.’’

Marsha Brainard, race director for the Super Quik 5K, said Lumberg’s entry form was again the first to be received this year.

“He’s diligent,’’ Brainard said. “He wants to be the first one. When I mail out the applications, his usually makes it back the next day.’’

Lumberg’s motive is that being the first entry allows him to wear the No. 1 runner’s bib.

“That’s the only way I’m going to be number one,’’ he said.

Lumberg has missed only one Super Quik 5K race. A few years ago, he showed up late after miscalculating the starting time.

“It’s always a good race,’’ Lumberg said. “They give out a terrific goodie bag.’’

So far, more than 100 entries have been received for Saturday’s race, sponsored by Kraft, H.T. Hackney, and Ohio Valley Wholesale.

Race proceeds will go to the Chris Hutson Memorial Scholarship Fund, to be used for local education.

Late registration ($16) and packet pick-up will be Friday from 5 to 7:30 p.m. at the Flatwoods Super Quik Office.Race-day registration costs $20 and will be conducted from 7 to 7:55 a.m.