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Twilight Run in Havertown - race #4

     It was a great night for an evening run on April 27 at the sixth annual Twilight 5K Run in Havertown.  Temps were in the the high 60s and over 200 runners, along with many walkers, were gathered at Haverford High School.  The school's jazz band entertained the crowd before the race, which benefited the Haverford Education Foundation.  For the second time this season, my sister Kim joined me in the race along with her fiance Johnny.  It's always more fun to run with someone. Visit Twilight Run to watch video of the race.
     After the 1-mile Kids Run, we lined up on Mill Road in front of the school.  When I ran the race two years ago, I remembered how much fun it was.  Heading down Mill Road, we turned right onto Darby Road.  Even though I feel stronger running in the morning, this night run was different and I headed out at a quicker pace.  Once we reach E. Benedict Avenue, we turned around and headed back down Darby Road. 
     Heading down the two-lane road, the sun was out of my eyes and the wind was now at my back, and I kept that in mind as I passed Brookline Boulevard and then the Skatium.  Once we hit E. Mercer Avenue, I noticed a slight decline as I ran towards West Chester Pike.  The route is pretty flat, but it's not completely flat!  Reaching E. Park Road, we turned around again and headed up the incline and towards the finale.  I high fived Kim and Johnny while I trudged up the hill.  Nearing Valley Road, I noticed a group of kids who had formed a high-five assembly line.  Swerving towards the sidewalk, I slapped all their hands and their encouragement made me smile and propelled me to wrap up this race.
     Turning right onto Mill Road my  mom, who was sitting in front of the Haverford Library, shouted out my name as I made my way to the finish line.  I struggled to find any more speed, and crossed the finish line with a time of 29:55.  I was a little disappointed, especially since two years ago I ran one of my fastest times ever, but I felt strong physically.  After the race, runners can stop at a number of eateries and show their bibs to get free items!  So we got our free beers at J.D. McGillicuddy's, a cookie at Koffmeyer's and a water ice at Pop's.  I wish all races offered this!    
     Grading on the route, ease and cost of registration, T-shirt appeal and the overall fun factor I give this race four-and-a-half sneakers out of five.
     Next up is the Broad Street Run. 

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