Living on the west side of the Mississippi, we get caught up in the race scene here. We forget that “here” also should include our neighbors to the East.

In effort to build bridges _ as opposed to tollways _ here are a couple notes from our running brethren who see the sunrise first with news of some races you should check out.

1. The Hoyleton Community Club is sponsoring the second annual Hofbraufest 5K  and half-mile youth run at 8 a.m. July 12 in Hoyleton Community Park. This race has several features going for it. The course is flat and first place is worth $100. Entry fee is $20. For more information and a map, click here.

2. The Alton Road Runners will host the 30th annual Pee Wee Run on July 13 at Gordon Moore Park in Alton.

Russ Colona, president of the group, writes: “One of the interesting facts about this race is that the same man, Marc Hackworth of Hit-N-Run Stores, has sponsored this run all 30 years. He has provided the t-shirts and refreshments.”

The run also includes a raffle in which every runner wins a prize: bikes, Cardinals tickets, water pistols.

The half-mile run is exclusive, catering only to youngsters, ages 7-14. The quarter-mile is for ages 6 and under.
And the cost? Just $5.

Check out the Alton Road Runners’ web site for more informatin.