Women's Half Marathon: 'To break the tape today was great'

EUGENE, Ore. -- Over 1,100 women of all ages ran the Eugene Women's Half Marathon course Sunday morning.

The 13.1 mile half marathon route followed the riverside, took to the trails in Alton Baker park and ended in downtown Eugene. This year's Women's Half Marathon was exceptionally rewarding for runner Kate MacTavish, who took three awards with her first place time of 1:25:50.

"We spend so much time training, so much time running alone that it's actually rewarding to get to be around so many people cheering you on and recognizing your efforts." said MacTavish. "To break the tape today was just great, I haven't done that in a long time."

While not every racer walked away from the half marathon with an award, each runner received some rewards for their efforts. The women were awarded a necklace with a special charm, chocolate and champagne at the finish line, and all participants got a gift bag.

The funds raised by the Eugene Women's Half Marathon go to different charities within the community. Officials said that they raised more than a thousand dollars.

Finishing behind Kate MacTavish was Sheena Dahlke (1:26:42) and Maren Elliott (1:27:14).