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Longville logged the biggest turtle race in several years on July 5, as a combined total of 559 turtle racers braved the afternoon heat to compete in the downtown racing circle.

The racing started with nine racers in the Chamber Resort Race, which ended in a three-way tie. Winning honors were shared by Grady Marnik, 18 months old, of Omaha, Nebraska, representing Timber Trails Resort; Brooke Schoenecker, age 7, of Sauk Rapids, Minnesota, representing All Seasons Resort; and Dick Hoge, age 88, of St. Joseph, Missouri, representing Thielen’s.

Then, during an afternoon of fun, games and contests, another 550 racers competed in the regular turtle races. At the end of the day, the Grand Champion title went to Ruby Thone, age 4, of Norfolk, Nebraska. She was racing “Flash,” a turtle the family had caught in Walker Bay three days earlier.

Grand Slowpoke honors went to Morgan Flohaug, age 9, of Coon Rapids, Minnesota.

The Longville Chamber would like to thank all who make this event possible, especially race announcer Dave Adams, his assistant Brittney Wolters, and race judges Charlee, Katelyn, Tarike and Pat. We would also like to recognize the volunteers from VFW Post 772 and Camp Olson YMCA.

Turtle races will be held each Wednesday through Aug. 23 in downtown Longville. Race registration and the contests and games open at 1 p.m. The Chamber Resort Race is held at 2 p.m., followed by the regular turtle races. Race registration is $3, which includes the rental of a turtle (or you can bring your own). Proceeds benefit community activities sponsored by the Longville Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce.