5K Running of the Elk (Ponca Arkansas Photographer)

The first ever 5K Running of the Elk was held on September 11, 2010 at 8:30 am in Ponca, Arkansas and I was invited to photograph the event. The run was hosted by the Upper Buffalo River Merchants Association and was a charity event with 100% of the proceeds going to benefit the Arkansas Children's Hospital in Little Rock. 107 runners turned out on a beautiful morning to run in one of the most beautiful places in the country. Why in the world is it called the "Running of the Elk"? The area pictured below is a favorite haunt of a large herd of elk that live in the Buffalo River valley. Unfortunately, when the sun came out, the elk retreated to the shady woods and riverside so they were not available for photos. Thanks to all the great sponsors of the event and the folks who worked hard to make this happen. I hear talk about next year's event.....