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Merry Place 5K in Havertown - race #9

     After a summer swimming in a crystal blue outdoor pool, I headed back to the pavement and started running a week after Labor Day.  After running eight races in eight weeks last spring, I was excited to try and accomplish that goal again for the fall.  I was looking forward to my fourth annual 5K Run for Merry Place Oct. 2 in Havertown.  The event benefited Merry Place, which is located in Glendale Park and includes a playground and nature area. The run also kicked off Haverford Township Day, which included a parade (that I drove my yellow VW Bug in), food, music and more.  See photos and video of the race at http://tinyurl.com/4x4oqja.  
     This year the run was at a new location, the Haverford Reserve off of Darby Road.  On the grounds of the former Haverford State Hospital, the Reserve boasts carriage homes, trails, athletic fields, Freedom Playground and a dog park.  Thankfully, the forecasted rain never materialized and when I arrived at the Reserve, the sun actually began to appear and the temperature was 57 degrees.
All smiles after winning a free pizza!
     Starting off, we headed around the new homes, pass the fields and dog park and down a steep hill towards Darby Creek Road.  The trees shaded the runners as we raced beside the creek.  While I missed running the previous route by Haverford High School and hearing the residents cheer us on, the new path made me more relaxed and I was able to enjoy the fall scenery. 
     Heading down Darby Creek Road and to the turnaround, the lead runners whizzed passed me to the finish line.  I’m always amazed how fast they are!  After reaching the turnaround, I headed back and paced myself for that monster hill I knew was awaiting me near the finish line.
     Trudging up the hill, I turned right and crossed the finish line.  While I like to finish strong, unfortunately my legs felt like jelly after climbing my way back.  I crossed over with a time of 29:51, ok but I really want to start pushing myself more.  After the race I ran into one of my summer pool co-workers, Adam, who ran his first ever 5K.  He finished with a great time of 23:30.
     For my next race I’m signed up for the Red Cross Delaware County Run/Walk For Life on Oct. 9 in Brookhaven. 

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