SPOKANE, WA--Elite runners and wheelchair racers won't be the only ones eyeing first place on Sunday. For the last nine years, bands and performers who line the Bloomsday course have been competing against each other for the coveted title of Best Bloomsday Entertainer, and they’ll be out in force again this year.
“We expect lively entertainment and a spirited competition among performers again this year,” said Laurel Warner, the Bloomsday volunteer who organizes the on-course entertainment. “And no matter who wins, we know participants will enjoy the variety of performers along the route.”
After the race next Sunday, there will be a button on the Bloomsday website that will allow race participants to choose their favorite act. Last year 1,274 votes were cast for the nearly 30 bands who entertained the runners, joggers, and walkers. The top prize went to vocalist Adrienne Bousquet for her "Sequins and Sinatra" act that charmed Bloomies near the six-mile mark. Second place was the indie group Black Gingham and third was soloist Tori Whitten. Bousquet won’t be back to defend her title, but both Black Gingham and Whitten will be performing again this year.
The winner of this year’s Best Bloomsday Entertainer title will receive a cash prize of $500, while second and third will earn $300 and $200 respectively. With performers ranging from Church Choirs to Oldies to Zimbabwe/American pop, there is something for everyone on Bloomsday.
For a complete list of bands and performers go to "On-Course Entertainment" under the "Race Information" tab on the left hand side of the Bloomsday home page. The 37th Lilac Bloomsday Run is this Sunday, May 5th.
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