Pristine winter running conditions welcomed participants of the Frosty’s Frozen Five and Ten Mile at Hudson Gardens in Littleton. The second race of Colorado Runner’s Winter Distance Series featured five and ten mile races along the flat and fast Platte River Trail. Afterwards, runners and walkers basked in the sunshine and enjoyed snacks and beverages while the top finishers were announced.
Winners of each race received a new pair of New Balance shoes, and top age groupers received Runners Roost gift certificates. The event continually attracts some of Colorado’s talent, and this year was no different, with Ashley Brasovan setting a new women’s event record in the 5 mile.
The men’s 10 mile saw 27-year old Mason Frank take the lead early on and never look back. He slowly widened the gap between his competitors and finished first in 54:52. Second place belonged to Tristan Mitchell of Littleton in 1:00:22, with Kyle Van Zile of Colorado Springs rounding out the top three in 1:01:12.
In the women’s 10 mile, 38-year old Briana Boehmer finished first in 1:04:49, with 22-year old Heather Bates coming in second in 1:05:49. Sarah Bayof Niwot crossed the line in third in 1:07:40.
The men’s 5 mile was won by 35-year old Jess Palmer in 28:05. Coming in a close second was 41-year old Andy Rinne in 28:31, with 36-year old Marshall Zelinger rounding out the podium in 29:55.
In the women’s 5 mile, 26-year old Ashley Brasovan not only dominated the women’s race, but came in third overall and set a new event record in 29:43. Parker’s Laura Cook was second in 31:50, and 18-year old Sam Schaffer finished third in 33:42.
The race benefits the Colorado Coalition for the Homeless, a nonprofit organization which has been helping the homeless for 30 years.