Runners prepare for Alliant Energy 8k

CEDAR RAPIDS - Once again, Cedar Rapids will host one of the most successful road races in the country, bringing in top runners from across the globe July 4.

The CVRA's Fifth Season races, highlighted by the Alliant Energy 8K, has a reputation for decent prize money and great hospitality, which translates into a large number of elite road racers.

“The race's well-known tradition and large purse help draw a lot of runners,” said Mount Mercy track and field coach Ryan Scheckel, the elite athlete coordinator for the 8K. “Actually, we have the largest purse for any 8K race in the nation.”

A total of $10,800 will be distributed among the top 10 male and female finishers this year, with $2,000 going to each winner.

“Pros take a look at that prize money and it's very enticing,” Scheckel said. “We also do a great job of caring for our runners and managing the race. Agents love to send their athletes here.”

This field has the potential to be the strongest in the history of the race.

In the women's field, former Iowa standout Diane Nukuri-Johnson hopes to repeat during her preparation for the 2012 London Olympic Games. She'll represent Burundi in the marathon.

She has some challengers, however, including Meryem Erdogan of Turkey, who owns a 31:44 10K and is the European junior record holder at that distance. The field includes former Iowa City High standout Michelle (Lilienthal) Frey, who was the second American and 16th overall at the 2006 Boston Marathon. Emily Brown, the U.S. 5K champion in 2011, and Obsie Birru, an NAIA champion from Grand View, could challenge.

Last year's runner-up in the men's race, Samuel Ndereba of Kenya, and former Wartburg runner Josh Moen head the men's field, which according to Schekel is “outstanding.” Julius Kiptoo, a two-time Alliant Energy champion who was fifth last year, and 2007 champion Elene Reta also make the men's field “deep.”

“I wouldn't be surprised to see the record fall,” Scheckel said. “As for the women's field, I'd have to say that this is the best we've ever had. I'm excited to see what they can do.”

Keith Brantly holds the event record - this is the second year on a new course - at 22:38. Kris Ihle owns the women's mark at 25:55.

The CVRA Fifth Season races kick off Tuesday night with the inaugural Bohemian Triangle Street Mile, at 7 p.m. The Alliant Energy 8K starts at 7 a.m. Wednesday, followed by the 5K and children's race.