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Show 13 SPANISH FORK NEWS Speedy Spaniard hits 30 Chad Vest STAFF W R I T E R Fiesta Days in Spanish Fork has always been a wonderful celebration for this town. July 24, 2007 marks the 30th anniversary of the inaugural Speedy Spaniard 10k fun run. That's right, it has now been 30 years since it all began in 1977. In the beginning, this event was formed by a volunteer committee. Parks and Recreation director Jack Swenson and a local dentist, Don Robertson, united in one purpose: to make it fun for all. These two gentlemen delegated responsibilities for volunteers which included registration, mile markers, time-score cards, setting up cones and passing out water to runners along the course. Even the legendary Russell Swenson could be seen on a yearly basis passing out water to cool off the hot and perspiring runners. As many of you know, the race initially began at the Little Acorn at the mouth of Spanish Fork Canyon. Runners of all shapes and sizes made their way up the canyon, righting the butterflies in their stomach. Those who pre-registered could relax, stretch out or even stay in their vehicle to avoid the brisk, cold air from the early morning canyon wind. Others enjoyed mingling just before the race got underway, in a sense, this traditional event has been a nice reunion for many as former residents from across the country return home and catch up with familiar faces. One of the great old-time participants of the Speedy Spaniard is Lynn Leifson. He is around 58 years old and has run the race 25 out of the 30 years it's been held. Through the years, Leifson has become part of the rich tradition that has surrounded the Speedy Spaniard course. "It's quite a legacy," Leifson said. "I've enjoyed it because it's a race here in our hometown. I've ran it many times with my boys when they were See RACE • 15 Steve Hardman / Spanish Fork News EXTRA MILERS: Avid runner Lynn Leifson has logged many a mile in the Speedy Spaniard over the years. His son, Jed, joins him in the Spanish Fork Half Marathon, above. *We yive you., .'TfiO'RS tfyte, Wwice & \i E& 1976 229 South nrv ii i11 mm iii '/ UtcCh 489-9310 ?w an "'<Y^ s & Son •'••i |