Simpson cross country brings 5k back to town celebration

INDIANOLA, Iowa - The Simpson College cross country program and head coach Brad Hofer will host the 2009 5K Balloon Challenge Road Race on Friday as part of Indianola's National Balloon Classic festivities.

The race is set to begin at 7 p.m., with the start line located directly east of Simpson's Bill Buxton Stadium on North C Street in Indianola.

After a hiatus, Hofer revitalized the race which had been a mainstay at the National Balloon Classic before being discontinued.

"This is a great small town road race that we are glad to bring back to the city of Indianola," said Hofer, who will begin his third season as head men's and women's cross country coach in the fall. "The National Balloon Classic is a tremendous celebration and we are glad the 5K Balloon Challenge Road Race is a part of the festivities."

The course will follow a flat, L-shaped loop around Indianola and finish on the Simpson College track. Awards will be given to the top three finishers in each age division as well as the top three overall finishers for the men and women.

Entries submitted before July 31 are $20, and can be dropped off at Simpson's athletic office, located in Cowles Fieldhouse.

Same-day entries will be accepted for $25.