June 21, 2019 – Submitted by Linda Desjardins.
This low-key relay race takes in an unusual two-mile course around the campus of Beverly High School. It starts on the track for a half lap then moves outside the track to a grassy area (which for the race was soggy, soggy , soggy), and then to the back of the property, around the baseball field backstop, out to the driveway with a slight hill, up that incline then down the loop around the front of the school, back up the loop and right turn out to the street, run that stretch and then make another right to continue on the perimeter of the campus, then back inside to the grassy area, another longish loop around to nearly the backstop (still very soggy), then finally back on to the track to finish out the starting lap. Fortunately, there are marshals, cones and chalk markings on the grass to keep us on (or is it off?) track. Because team members gather along the 50-yard line starting area, everyone gets a good cheering send-off and encouraging shouts as they finish and hand off to the second and third leg runners. It really is a lot of fun and benefits the Beverly High School Track and Cross-Country programs.
All ages are represented in the race as some local running clubs, like North Shore Striders and Wicked, organize teams to participate in the relays as well as the high school students, and the supportive atmosphere and friendly and willing volunteers all contribute to a pleasant outing for all participants and fans.
The Striders contributed both runners and volunteers. Jill Page organized the race itself, Cheryl Welsh organized the Strider teams, and Jenny Reynolds worked registration. The Striders entered two senior women’s teams and one men’s super-veterans team. Individual times were not tracked; only team total times were recorded. We did a good job and we had a good time.
- 1st NSS SENIOR WOMEN Jennifer O’Neil Jill Page Lauren Hamilton 50:05
- 2nd NSS SENIOR GEMS Sally Fowler Bonnie Hallinan Linda Desjardins 1:02:46
- 1st NSS SUPER VETERANS Mike Pelletier Dave Newhall George Geis 1:01:10
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