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KIRKSVILLE, MO. -- The street was lined with Irish pride as the 2012 St. Patrick's Day parade began on Elson Street. The Shrine Club's miniature go-kart cars were the highlight...at least that's what the kids said.

"I thought the little guys driving the mini cars were really cute," said Rhea Rechav, of Kirksville.

"I like the fire truck and candy," said Daniel Allemang, of Kirksville.

"We have a lot more people involved in the parade itself," said Brandon Jenson, the parade's Grand Marshal. "It looks to be a lot more people in the run to support the 5k and the benefits that goes to. We have people here upon the square now with different events for the kids...bounce houses."

Organizers said the 28th Annual St. Patrick's Day 5000 meter run was a huge success this year. More than 200 people participated. The first place winner talked to us after the race.

"It felt pretty good," said Josiah Belcer, a student at Truman State University.  "It was windy and hot but I feel like I finished that last mile especially hard so it felt good."

The proceeds of the race will benefit the Northeast Missouri Association for Citizens with Disabilities.

Of course the festivities would not be complete without the little Mr. and Miss Leprechaun contest.

Here's a list of the winners.

GIRLS                                                                     BOYS

Ages 2- 3             Audri Webster                         Travis Wise

Ages 4 - 5            Trish Genoway                        Benjamin Webster

Ages 6 - 7             Kenya Jenson                        Talib Webster