Fifth Season Races back in action

CEDAR RAPIDS - In only his second trip back to Cedar Rapids, elite runner Edward Kiptum Tabut claimed his first Health Solutions 8K win with a time of 24:16.

Originally from Kenya, the now-Coon Rapids, Minn., resident made his debut at the Fifth Season Races in 2012, where he finished in fourth place. Tabut said he was able to cruise his way to victory much easier this time than his last appearance.

'This year was much more comfortable,” Tabut said. 'The last time was so hot. I absolutely like this course.”

With a temperature not much higher than 70 degrees on Friday, race conditions were nearly perfect for runners. While some prefer the rain and more humid temperatures, Tabut said he couldn't have wished for a better day.

Confident in his ability to come out on top, Tabut said the distractions and excitement of the Fourth of July holiday didn't get the best of him.

'I was focused in; I had to be confident,” Tabut said. 'I brought my attitude to be quick in this 8K and I was able to run better today.”

Nathan Hopp, a West Amana resident, finished eighth overall, just seconds ahead of the top female finisher.

Hopp came in first in his division with a time of 25:40. Hopp said normally when running in the Fifth Season Races he has a way of self-destructing.

But on Friday, he paced alongside the elites.

'Today's plan was to go out controlled and I knew with the elite women's field, (the leader) runs about the same time I do. I'm just going to keep her right around where I am and make my move where I need to,” Hopp said. 'Sure enough, it worked out pretty well.”

Hopp said he appreciates the local feel and that's what brings him back, now in his ninth year of running the races.

Among other top local finishers were Zach Baker from Iowa City with a time of 24:24, Michael Nordberg of Cedar Rapids in 25:54 and Christopher Jensen of Marion rounding out the top 10 overall with a time of 25:58.

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