HUNTINGTON, W.Va. — The WV 5K Championship Race Committee changed the distance of the last race in the Huntington Winter Series from a 10K to an 8K (5 miles) scheduled for Sunday, Feb. 28 at 2 p.m.

The main goal of the Huntington Winter Series is to encourage people to move from a 5K to their first 10K. “Since we lost the ability to do a 8K (approx. 5 Miles) on Jan. 31 due to the weather, we feel that it would make the jump from a 5K to a 10K more difficult” said series director Pat Riley.

“The 8K race distance will be the next logical step for runners to take as they work on improving their endurance,” said Chris Parsons, race committee member.

The Huntington Winter Series presented by the Herald-Dispatch with partnership of the United Way of the River Cities has been a great success. “Our partnership with the Winter Series organizers has been great,” said Cassey Bowden, Director of Development & Marketing, United Way of the River Cities. “Their ability to be flexible in planning events, cater to the most seasoned and new runners and take the weather our region has seen in the last several weeks into consideration for the runners is commendable!,” said Bowden.

The Jingle Bell 5K Run, which was the first race of the series, attracted more than 200 people. The second race included more than 150 very tough runners who braved the cold in Barboursville Park one day after the tri-state saw 4 ½ inches of snow.

The last race, which will be held on Sunday at 2 p.m. at the Barboursville Park, will recognize those who come out and run the 8K along with those who have ran the entire series.

Awards will be presented to the top three overall and age group male/female finishers in the 8K.

Those who have run in all three races will receive a T-shirt with the Huntington Winter Series Logo on it as well as be eligible for overall and age group awards.

Register today by visiting www.TriStateRacer.com. Entry fees are $15 before Feb. 26 and $20 on race day.