Local runners will take to the hills Sunday to celebrate the New Year, taking part in the Winfield Mile held at South Carroll High School. 

The race, held since the 1980's, is a "feel good" run organized by the Westminster Road Runners Club. 

"It is held on New Year's Day, as the first good Mile run to ring in the New Year. It is a down hill race so everyone can feel good about their mile times," said Race Director Jamie Sullivan of the Westminster Road Runners Club. "The prizes have always been left over Christmas and Holiday candy. I raid the stores after Christmas and pick it all up for 50 percent off. Everyone seems to like it." 

The race is $2 for Westminster Road Runner members and $4 for non-members, with everyone welcome. The race attracts more than 100 runners of varying ages. 

"You have to park at South Carroll high school and then walk up the 1 mile climb to the start of the race, good warmup. You see young and old at this one. Last year we had them from age 3 to 79. Entire families will come out," said Sullivan. 

As to why the event is held on New Year's Day? 

"I don't know why we have it on New Year's Day, but the reason it is at noon is because runners can sleep in after celebrating New Year's Eve the night before and then get a race in," said Liuda Galinaitis of the Westminster Road Runners. 

The Winfield Mile will be held on Sunday, Jan. 1 at South Carroll High School at noon. Race signup is at South Carroll High School, but the start is 1 mile west on Old Liberty Road. Runners are encouraged to come early.