About 500 runners and walkers laced up their sneakers Saturday for the 18th annual Shamrock Shuffle, a fundraising run for the Lawrence St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee. It was the biggest year yet, organizers said.

The 5-kilometer run went along the Kansas River levee in North Lawrence and took off behind Johnny’s Tavern, 401 N. Second St.

“I didn’t think … I was going to win … it,” said breathless 23-year-old Leandrew Martine, after crossing the finish line first with a time of 17:02. “I was pretty happy.”

Beads of sweat dripped down 28-year-old Scott McVey’s face as he rushed in 20 seconds later, placing second.

Some of the more intense runners treated the event as somewhat of an extended workout.

“It gave me something to do,” said Martine, who runs 60 miles every week. “I just love running; it’s fun.”

“It’s a fun run for a lot of people,” said Joanie Starks, a member of the Red Dog Days community workout club, who used the race to prepare for the upcoming running season.

Others weren’t quite so concerned with triumph or spring training.

“We weren’t last, we were close,” said Dorothy Calohan, laughing as she and Carol Wirthman, both of Lawrence, finished walking the course.

“I get a real high out of it, even though I walk,” said Wirthman, who participated knowing that the proceeds from the event go to local children’s charities.

After the race, runners and walkers were treated to a free breakfast by Johnny’s. Richard Lakey, of Nortonville, said it was the best part of the day.

The Jefferson North Middle School track coach sat outside with other coaches from the school while enjoying his plate, tired from the run.

“Maybe I should train!” he joked.