A RECORD TURNOUT, FIVE GENERATIONS, ANOTHER MILLER WIN, AND A SUB-19 FEMALE WINNING TIME HIGHLIGHT 47TH ANNUAL GOOSE DAY RUN

By Kenny Varner Jr.
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Updated: September 28, 2025

Lewistown—In its 47th year, the annual Goose Day 5K Run in Lewistown attracted a record number of competitors Saturday, including a 92–year-old running veteran, a long-time winner returning, and a spectacular winning female time.

A total 228 runners took part, 80 more than last year. Among those crossing the line were 11 members of the Richard Aurand family. The 92-old patriarch from Lewistown finished with his family supporting him. Children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and a great-great grandson were in tow as Richard, hobbled with a bad knee, crossed the finish line. He was recognized as the oldest finisher and great-great grandson Russell Demaio was the youngest.

Juniata High School cross country coach Jeff Miller was the overall winner, adding to his long list of Goose Day wins, dating back to early 1990s. Due to coaching conflicts, Miller hadn’t run the race in several years. His 16:43 time at age 57 demonstrated he’s still a top-flight competitor. His son Lance placed second overall.

Fourteen-year-old Espie Bargas won the female title in an incredible time of 18:40, which was also good for fifth overall.

First-place masters (40 and over) trophies went to Zach Leister and Alison Lutz.

Complete results from the race are available at runhigh.com

The Juniata Valley Striders, organizers of the event, would like to thank their generous sponsors: KC’s Gifts, Jewelry & Awards, Lake Auto Dealerships, Juniata Valley River Visitors’ Bureau, Dunkin’, Houtz Chiropractic, Altiery Gingrich Insurance Agency, LHM Physical Therapy Institute, Kish Bank, and JM Young and Sons.

Also supporting the race were the Lewistown Borough Police, Lewistown Fire Police, FAME EMS, Juniata Valley Amateur Radio Club, and the Mifflin County High School cross country teams.

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