Hangover Handicap may be canceled

The 44th annual Hangover Handicap fun run set to kick off the new year Jan. 1 may be canceled.

The five-mile race is a fundraiser for Tesh and generally attracts about 300 runners and walkers.

However, organizers have not been granted permits to hold the race that traditionally starts and finishes behind Michael D’s Eatery.

Idaho is seeing an increase in COVID-19 cases and is in Stage 2 of Gov. Brad Little’s “Idaho Rebounds” coronavirus recovery plan,

“If that doesn’t change, we’ll have to call it off,” said Frances Huffman, Tesh CEO.

She said a decision should be made Friday.

The Hangover Handicap is one of great camaraderie, good health and has raised thousands for Tesh, which helps people with disabilities develop skills and become self-sufficient through education and training.

So far, about 50 men, women and children have registered. Cost is $25 without a shirt, $50 with a shirt.

“People have begged us to have it,” Huffman said.

If the race is held, organizers have planned for a safe run with social distancing. The route follows the North Idaho Centennial Trail with a 2.5-mile turn around and return. Registrants can check in any time after 8:30 a.m. and begin their run.