About 3,341 runners and walkers converged on Oakland University, most to take on 13.1 miles of Oakland County roads, parks, and trails at Sunday’s Brooksie Way. About 2,335 finished the half marathon, and another 1,006 complete the 5K route.
The field included about 200 Clarkston-area residents, 136 finishing the half marathon. Top local finisher was Rich Rodriguez, finishing 1:19:36, 13th place overall, and first in his age division, Men 45-49. Overall winner was Patrick Rizzo of Rochester Hills, with a time of 1:08:19.
The Oct. 5 race was the idea of L. Brooks Patterson, Oakland County executive, as a way to showcase the county. The race, named in honor of his late son, Brooks “Brooksie” Stuart Patterson, was organized with the help of Crim Fitness Foundation.
Each finisher received a gold medal decorated with autumn-colored leaves.
– Phil Custodio