For a first-time race, the Run With The Heroes 5-K on Sunday had everything going for it: Perfect weather, great post-race food, and a moving pre-race tribute. Just as importantly, the 475 runners and walkers who showed up were treated to a fast, fun course at Southpark Meadows.

Designed as a fund-raiser for the 100 Club of Central Texas, the Run With The Heroes had a huge law-enforcement turnout from all over Central Texas. The biggest turnout came from APD as than 150 members of the APD Running Team raced the 5-K.

The overall winners were David Vance in 17:17 and Sondra Leider in 21:27. "It wasn't the most scenic course I've ever run," said Vance who ran 2:58:25 at the Dallas White Rock marathon in December, "but since there were so many turns I could keep an eye on my competitors. I liked that part of it."

Vance needed to keep an eye on his competitors as Andy Yaeger was close behind in 17:23 for second and Peter Huff was third in 18:31. Rudy Casarez, 42, was fourth overall and first masters runner in 19:02.

Leider also had plenty of competition as Elena Campos was right behind in 21:43 with Mercedez Orten in third in 22:03. First masters woman was 55-year-old Debby Harkness of Lago Vista in 22:12.

Race director APD Sergeant Cary said the race came off without so much as a hitch. It was the first race Cary had directed since 2005 when he put on the final RunTex 30-K held in Buda at Hays High School.

During pre-race ceremonies, Cary cried when the APD bag piper played Amazing Grace and race announcer, Robert Evilsizer, read a tribute to Officer Hunter's memory.  Fittingly, Officer Hunter's eight-year-old daughter, Mykala Hunter, ran the race.

 " I was convinced to put on the race because it was going to be held in memory of APD Officer Clint Hunter," said Cary. "I also wanted to see a yearly event in South Austin and this was a perfect venue."