2020 Johnnycake Jog one of few public events to place as scheduled

PAINESVILLE/MENTOR – One small community race managed to defy the odds and take place amid a slew of cancellations due to Covid-19 this year.

The 44th Annual News-Herald Johnnycake Jog hosted a couple hundred local athletes for a Sunday start/finish at the Lake County Fairgrounds, weaving thru a 5-mile course set up from Painesville to Mentor and back again.

Runners were graced with cool temps and clear skies as they were started off in smaller groups to allow recommended social distancing. By the time most had finished, temps had reached the low 80’s and water stops had become a welcome sight.

Fair food vendors were on hand at the fairgrounds, offering food and drink specials for spectators and attendees.

The top overall finisher was Austin Neura of Medina, with a time of 25 minutes, 42 seconds.

Renee Harden, also of Medina, was the first overall women’s finisher and a time of 32 minutes, 30 seconds.