Jurcevich captures Blade Classic 10K

Runners race through the streets of downtown Toledo yesterday in the Blade Classic 10K. More than 370 runners participated in the annual event.

Jim Jurcevich of Dublin, Ohio, captured the Blade Classic 10-kilometer race yesterday in downtown Toledo.

It was perfect weather with more than 370 participants ranging from ages 12 to 82.

“The race went well; there was real nice weather and a good field,” said Pete Buehler, race director. “The course was fast, but I was disappointed that the participation was low.”

Jurcevich had a winning time of 30 minutes, 40 seconds. Paul Aufdemberge of Redford, Mich., placed second in 30:54. Oniden Olpean of Royal Oak, Mich., took third in 30:57.

Among the women, Denisa Costescu of Royal Oak notched first place with a time of 35:12, followed by Debbi Kilpatrick and Ann Alyanak, who posted times of 35:25 and 36:00, respectively.

In the men's masters' race (ages 40 and older) Mark Persing of Cincinnati was victorious with a time of 34:32. Glenn Miller (35:48) of Sylvania and Joseph Caruso (35:53) from Erie, Mich., placed second and third, respectively.

In the women's masters' division, Becky Rudnicki of Oregon placed first with a time of 39:01. Debbie Wagner of Perrysburg covered the distance in 39:25, which was good for second place. Stacey Geirman of Monroe, Mich., registered a third-place finish in 39:36.

Joshua Selix, 12, of Maumee completed the course with a time of 46:04, while 82-year-old John Wernert finished with a time of 1 hour, 13 minutes.