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Over 1,000 take part in 20th Annual Hyner Challenge

In this photo shared by Virginia Hoffman, 25-year-old Andrew Hutchinson, of Mechanicsburg, rings Carls’ Bell after being the first to near the summit at Hyner View. PHOTO PROVIDED

HYNER — Twenty years ago, running enthusiast Craig Flemming pitched and collaborated with members of the Western Clinton Sportsman’s Association on the idea of a trail run throughout the hills of Hyner Mountain. The idea of introducing the views and challenges of Hyner Mountain while simultaneously promoting tourism was a winning proposition for all — even though many locals thought the idea a bit extreme.

Two decades later, the Hyner Challenge has become a premier trail run for not just the area but the state, with over 1,000 participants hitting the start-line on a chilly Saturday morning.

Something that has truly become an international event, the challenge draws runners from all over the world.

As those first years saw many locals and others signing up to walk the course — something that by no means is discouraged to this day — the event has evolved into a race, as the fittest of the fit look forward each year to the thrill seeking that Hyner has to offer. This year, the 50K began at 8 a.m. and had 391 participants while the 25K, starting at 9 a.m., had 843 taking part.

The energy of the event could be seen throughout the event with competitive camaraderie on full display before, during and after the race.

Runners pose for a photo together ahead of the 20th Annual Hyner Challenge. KEVIN RAUCH/FOR THE EXPRESS

With a thick dew on the ground and post-race dinner already on the grills, a fog hung halfway up Hyner, just another reminder to the runners of what they were in store for as they took the starting line — and absolutely loved.

With just under a thousand taking part in the 25K this year, 25-year-old Andrew Hutchinson, of Mechanicsburg, crossed the line first in a chip time of 2:12:37.91.

Reagan McCoy, 28, of Lock Haven placed second with a time of 2:15:56.42. The final participant crossed the liner at a time of 8 hours and 18 minutes.

The 50K elite runners had just under 400 runners finish the race with Ben Quartromoni, 38, of Newport, Rhode Island, finishing with a course best 4:24:27.63.

Jesse Irwin, 39, of Cheat Lake, W. Va., arrived second at 4:28:25.45.

Runners are seen as the race began. KEVIN RAUCH/FOR THE EXPRESS

The final participant of the 50K crossed the line after 9 hours and 27 minutes.

KEVIN RAUCH/FOR THE EXPRESS Runners are pictured during the 20th Annual Hyner Challenge.

KEVIN RAUCH/FOR THE EXPRESS Runners are seen grouped around a fire pit before the 20th Annual Hyner Challenge.

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