NECC Campus Classic 5K

May 2, 2015
By Linda Desjardins

All winter we waited for the spring day of our imagination: cool, dry, snow banks melted, trees budding, flowers, clear roads, sun, smiling faces and a 5K to run. We got just what we wanted at the NECC Campus Classic this year. The course skirted the back perimeter of the NECC Campus and treated us to some views of Kenoza Lake, headed right to give us a few tenths of Rt. 110, the John Greenleaf Whittier Highway, before it headed back inward to pick up the front part of the campus’ perimeter and scooted us back to our starting point lined by rows of cheering fans. The race has a special vibe because it includes many novices, “couch to 5K” participants whose delight at finishing is just infectious. And their supporters rooted for everyone. We were all conquering heroes on that day.

A number of North Shore Striders were there to represent the club and participate in the second NSS Grand Prix event. Everyone seemed to enjoy themselves and the post-race snacks. Six of the ten Striders were called up to receive medals for their efforts; three were just barely out of medal contention; and Jenny held her own in the most populous division. Here’s the breakdown:

North Shore Striders at Campus Classic 5K

Overall Place		Age Group	Time
29th	Lauren Hamilton	3rd F5059	25:28
30th	Neil Bernstein	2nd M6069	25:58
35th	Tom McMahon	3rd M6069	26:37
38th	Michael Pelletier	1st M70+	26:47
48th	Linda Desjardins	1st F6069	28:21
70th	Rosie Kyes	4th F4049	30:08
85th	Mary Stevens	5th F5059	33:18
90th	Armand Claveau	4th M70+	34:07
115th	Jenny Reynolds	11th F3139	40:27
121st	Nancy Wilson	1st F70+	48:40

Congrats to all who drove to Haverhill and toed that starting line – and finished the task.