RUMFORD – During the awards presentation at the 10th annual Rotary River Valley Road Races held at Hosmer Field, runners who signed up and participated in the 2005 Challenge Series were recognized and presented trophies they earned.

Three races held in the River Valley were included. Participants had to run in any two of the races to qualify. The races were the ninth Rotary Moontide Water Festival Road Races, the third Dixfield Bicentennial Road Race and the second Black Mountain of Maine Trail Race. Fourteen people ran at least two of the races and seven of them qualified.

The three 5K races are each unique. The Rumford race uses the main streets in Rumford and Mexico, Dixfield cruises through the residential section of town and the Black Mountain race uses one of the winter cross country trails.

The following people received awards:

Overall men: first, Jeff Arsenault, Rotary MTWF 20:21; Dixfield, 20:17; second, Adam Mahar, Rotary MTWF, 24:01, Dixfield, 23:25; third, Steve Day, Rotary MTWF 24:53, Dixfield, 23:03.

Overall women: Nancy Kneeland, Rotary MTWF 22:55 and Dixfield 22:36.

Men under 20: first, Adam Mahar 47:26; age 30-39, first, Steve Day, 47:53; ages 40-49, first Jeff Arsenault 40:38, second, Bob Arsenault, 49:43; ages 50-59, first, David Young, 48:37; ages 60-69, first, Jerry LaVasseur, 49:33.

Women, ages 50-59: first Nancy Kneeland 45:30.

The 2006 series has begun. Those interested in participating must sign up by Aug. 22. The Rotary and Dixfield race results will be included in determining the results.

The races are made possible by support of businesses in the River Valley and volunteers. Proceeds are returned to the communities through donations and support of local activities.