SANGERFIELD –The Route 20 Road Challenge held its first ever banquet Michael’s in Sangerfield on Saturday, February 24 to recognize the accomplishments of runners participating in the 2017 year long running series.

Craig North of Eaton and Bill Kosina of Richfield Springs, who serve not only as the Road Challenge directors but direct races in their own hometowns, spoke at the event. North and Kosina reviewed the year as well as outlined the plans for the upcoming 2018 season schedule, which included 18-20 expected races.

Also speaking was Kevin Hoehn, who serves as the series’ unofficial ‘ambassador’. Hoehn spoke of the camaraderie and friendships built up over the years among race participants. “Unlike clubs and similar formats, this series is unique; it’s kind of freeform,” said Hoehan. “There’s really nothing like it I know of.”

The Route 20 Road Challenge, which links running events within the corridor of the Route 20 Scenic Byway, began in 2000. Former Route 20 Association President Bill Kwasniewski remembered how the concept developed with the input of a handful of race directors who gathered in the living room of his home in West Winfield.