Five Women Entered In International Race

The 67th International Pancake Day is Feb. 9, and as of Tuesday afternoon, five women have entered the International Race. They include Nakiesha Cohens, Leslie Spikes, Shawna Quint, Ashley Werkmeister, and Kitty Lum. The Men’s Race has four contestants so far: Tyson McGuire, Randy Ortiz, Erving Altamircano, and Robert (Pino) Hildreth. Space remains in most children’s categories, but Five-Year-Old Boys is full. Only a few spots remain in some age groups. Contestants of all ages may sign up at the Liberal Recreation Center, 1109 W. 7th St. (in Blue Bonnet Park) through Jan. 29. The number of contestants in each race is limited to 15, and a category will be closed once that limit is reached. There is no entry fee. No late sign-ups will be accepted.

RACE CATEGORIES The International Race The International Race is the main event, and this will be 67th match-up between the women of Liberal, Kansas, and Olney, England. This race is limited to women age 18 or older with a Liberal address who have “domestic duties.” (High school students who are 18 should enter the youth division.) Women who sign up for the International Race should bring a photo of themselves when they sign up.

Men’s Pacer Race The Men’s Pacer Race is open to all men ages 18 and older (except those still enrolled in high school, who will run in the youth division).

Youth Races This category is for teens ages 13-18 who live in Liberal. The youth division will feature at least two races, one for men and one for women. The number of racers who sign up will determine how many age categories the racers will be grouped into. The youth division race is a 75-yard dash and will be held immediately after the children’s races conclude. Pancake Day organizers would like to encourage high school students to enter, since USD 480 is closed in honor of Pancake Day. Winners will receive medals only and no monetary prizes, so high school athletes can enter without losing eligibility. Any entrant under 18 must have a parent or guardian present to sign the entry form.

Children’s Races Children from ages 3-12 who live in Liberal are eligible, and each age and gender competes in a separate category, offering lots of room for Liberal’s youngest Pancake Day Racers. The child’s parent or guardian must be present to sign the entry form.

Sign-ups continue during regular business hours, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. through Jan. 29. All sign-ups will be at the Liberal Recreation Center, 1109 W. 7th St. (in Blue Bonnet Park). For more information on any race, call Ronna Stump, at 620-626-0133 or JoAnn Combs at 620-624-6423.