Over 800 runners from across Texas descended on Kerrville this past Saturday for the annual Hill Country Half Marathon, and local runners were among the standout performers on a picture-perfect spring morning.

Kerrville native Sarah Mitchell, 34, claimed first place in the women’s division with a time of 1:24:37, finishing nearly three minutes ahead of her closest competitor. Mitchell, who trains along the River Trail most mornings, credited the familiar terrain for her success.

“Running through downtown Kerrville with everyone cheering — there’s nothing like racing on your home turf,” Mitchell said at the awards ceremony in Louise Hays Park.

The event also featured a 5K fun run that drew over 300 participants, including many families with young children. Proceeds from the race benefit the Kerrville Parks Foundation, which supports trail maintenance and park improvements throughout the city.