(Mountain View, Ark.) — The first ever Raccoon Creek Crusher Duathlon was recently held in Mountain View.  Employees from Stone County Medical Center (SCMC) and White River Health (WRHS) coordinated the event.  The event drew 84 participants and raised over $6,000 to benefit the athletic programs in Stone County schools: Mountain View, Rural Special, and Timbo.   

The 40K course consisted of a 7K running/walking course from SCMC to the town square, and a 33K biking course from SCMC to Little Raccoon Creek and back.  Participants had the option to sign up for the 7K race, a relay with one participant running and the other biking, virtual participation, or, for the brave of heart, the scenic and challenging run and bike ride to complete the duathlon.   

 “The response to the Raccoon Creek Crusher was remarkable. We had participants across the state tryout the beautiful, yet challenging, course.  In addition to the 65 runners/walkers, and 19 cyclists, over 40 additional people made donations to the event as virtual participants,” said Jody Smotherman, VP of Community Engagement at WRHS.   “The response exceeded our expectations and, as a result, we were able to support a worthwhile cause while promoting health and wellness in our community. We look forward to more opportunities to serve our community through events such as this.”

Participants had an opportunity to win several items including a Specialized Allez Sport Bike, made available through a partnership with Gearhead Outfitters, a free pair of running shoes from Altra, and a $75 gift card to Walmart. Along with SCMC and WRHS, platinum sponsors of the event were Centennial Bank and Citizens Bank; the gold sponsor was Stone County Community Resource Council and bronze sponsors included Animal Medical Center-Matt Gunter, DVM; Bad Boy Mowers; The Knotty Squirrel; Gearhead Outfitters; First Community Bank; First Security Bank; First National Bank; and the Wing Shack Cheeseburger Grill.

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