Record setting Mountain Goat Run

SYRACUSE, NY - A record breaking 2,850 people took part in the Mountain Goat Run on Sunday.

The winner was Kiplangat Tisia of Rochester, who finished with a time of 50:53.

What started as an exercise class at the downtown YMCA more than thirty years ago is now the biggest race in Syracuse. 

Maegan Krifchin was the first woman to cross the finish line for the 2nd year in a row. She clocked in at 55:59.

“It's a good challenge, the hills, rolling hills, the people and the community. All over the course there were tons of people cheering, ringing cowbells, writing chalk on the street so it was a really fun environment,” said Krifchin.

The 10-mile course includes some difficult hills. According to race organizer Ed Griffin, those hills are a big reason more racers sign up ever year.

“You can't have goats without hills and that's what it's famous for,” said Griffin. “We've got three really distinctive hills in different parts of the city and that's really the charm of the race.”

Griffin said the race draws participants, supporters and volunteers into the city for a full six weeks for training and preparation.

“Now on a Sunday we're dumping four to five thousand people into the business district. So, restaurants, pubs, are all making out really well. And the hotels,” said Griffin.

One runner said the large crowd helped him do his personal best.

“Great crowd. Public's cheering. Music's great. Especially on that mile-6 hill, halfway up the hill they had a good band going. It was good,” said Steven Wagner.

The winner of the race, Kiplangat Tisia, finished in less than 51 minutes and plans to be back next year to defend his title.

“I'm just happy I won. I’m happy,” said Tisia.

To see the results of the Mountain Goat Run, click here.