Uptown Wadesboro, Inc., hosted its first 5K race over the weekend, drawing 140 people from far and near.

The Saturday race, called the Summer Jam 5K, in conjunction with the start of the Summer Jam concert series Friday night, was organized by Uptown Wadesboro board members Carly Little, Misty Harris and Nichole Cox, who by all accounts did an amazing job organizing their first race.

"For the first-year race to have 140 registered runners is a strong attribute to Misty, Carly and Nichole," said Peter Asciutto, who owns the Vac & Dash in Albemarle (half vaccuum cleaner supplies, half running supplies) and regularly organizes races. "It also shows a strong support for a running community to start up here."

The runners and race organizers and volunteers gathered on Wadesboro's town square well before the 8 a.m. start of the race. Asciutto, Harris and Wadesboro Mayor Bill Thacker welcomed everyone to the event.

"I think it's wonderful you're all here," the mayor told the crowd. "Whether you're going to walk or run, we're glad you're here. We hope you'll enjoy your stay and of course, you're always welcome to come back."

In conjunction with the race, Harris pointed out that uptown businesses were opening their doors at 8:30 a.m., and encouraged the 5K participants to stay in town for a while and see what Wadesboro has to offer.

Mary Jeanne Doran of Chesapeake, Va., was in town to visit her sister, Denise Beachum of Fancy Crafts in uptown Wadesboro. A regular runner, she decided to participate in the 5K along with her sister. "It looks like they've got it organized well," Doran said. "It's definitely different terrain than I'm used to. Chesapeake is flat."

Beachum added that she's been training for about a year and a half, and would be both running and walking the 3.2-mile course. "I'm excited that we're doing this," she said. "And I'm glad it's the first annual and they'll be doing it again."

In fact, another 5K race is planned in conjunction with People Fest Oct. 9.

The top finishers in Saturday's race won trophies.

Towels were provided for the top 50 finishers by Buff Monkey Fitness Co.

Complete finishing results can be found at www.vac&dash.com.