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Miller still reigns when it comes to Goose Day 5K crown

LEWISTOWN — In its 47th running, this year’s Annual Goose Day 5K Run prove to have a little bit of everything: A record turnout of runners, including a 92-year-old veteran; a spectacular winning female time; and a 11-member contingent from a local family.

Of course, there was also the return of a long-time winner, Jeff Miller, of Lewistown, who didn’t miss a step in capturing another overall title.

Race organizers said a total of 228 competitors took part in this year’s race, which was 80 more than last year. Among those crossing the finish line were 11 members of the Richard Aurand family. The 92-year-old patriarch from Lewistown ended his run with his family support him, including his children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and great-great grandson.

Aurand completed the race despite being hobbled by a bad knee. He was recognized as the oldest finisher in 1:15.35, and his great-great grandson, Russell Demaio, age 5, was the youngest. His time was 39:06.

Miller, who coaches cross country at Juniata High School, was the overall winner, adding to his long list of Goose Day wins, dating back to early 1990s. Due to coaching conflicts, the 57-year-old Miller hadn’t run the race in several years. His time of 16:43 demonstrated he’s still a top-flight competitor. His son, Lance, age 25, of Ithaca, N.Y., placed second overall in 17:56.

Rounding out the top 10 were: Isaac Hallock, 21, of Reedsville, third place in 18:15; Kaleb Byler, 36, of Pittsburgh, fourth in 18:19; Espie Bargas, 14, of Lewistown, fifth in 18:40; David Mayall-Marker, 15, of Mifflintown, sixth in 18:53; Evan Yackey, 13, of Mifflintown, seventh in 18:56; Josh Peachey, 19, of Lewistown, eighth in 19:27; Evan Richard, 29, of McClure, ninth in 19:49; and Johann Peachey, 17, of Lewistown, 10th in 19:58.

The 14-year-old Bargas won the female title in an incredible time of 18:40. First-place masters (40 and over) trophies went to Zach Leister, town unknown, in 21:00 and Alison Lutz, of Reedsville, in 25:27.

The Juniata Valley Striders, organizers of the event, have posted complete race results at www.runhigh.com.

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