Sacred Heart's Shamrock Shuffle

Sacred Heart's Shamrock Shuffle - race #1

Irish eyes were smiling down on a few hundred runners and walkers at the second annual Shamrock Shuffle on March 9 at Sacred Heart Church in Havertown. Sunny skies, and temperatures in the upper 40s, greeted the runners decked out in their finest green garb. Visit Shamrock Shuffle to watch video of the race.
This was my first year running this race, my first race of 2013 and my first ever race running with my sister Kimmie. Arriving at the starting line with only about five minutes to spare (parking in the Manoa section of Havertown was very limited), Kimmie and I grabbed our running bibs and followed a bagpiper who led us all to Shelbourne Road. With almost everyone wearing green the mood felt festive for the run. Proceeds from the event will be used to fund upgrades to the infrastructure of Sacred Heart School.
Soon we were off, and headed down Shelborne before turning left on Lincoln, a quick left on Upland before reaching the straightaway of Maryland Ave. The beginning of the race was crowded and we actually didn't cross the starting line until about 30 seconds after the start, but by the time we reached Maryland the horde of runners had thinned out. Twisting and turning through the streets of Manoa, we were cheered on by race volunteers at every intersection. Unlike some races, this route was clearly mapped and volunteers made sure no one lost their way. Passing some leprechauns and one green-haired athlete I kept a steady, if slow, pace through the quaint neighborhood.

Reaching Lincoln Ave. again, I trudged up the slight hill before turning left and aimed for the finish line. Crossing the finish line, I felt good but was disappointed with my time of 31:28. I'm always cautious with my first race of the season, so I think tomorrow's Leprechaun Leap 5K at Cardinal O'Hara High School will be faster.
This is a great race, very well organized and a way to get ready for St. Patty's Day. Next year, it would be nice if they could use a special mat at the starting line, so the runner's chip will register when you've started the race. Grading on the route, ease and cost of registration, T-shirt appeal and the overall fun factor I give this race four sneakers out of five.

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