GLRR Newsletter: Ashworth Awards Baystate Marathon and Half Marathon

Photo by Andrea Shelton

Another Baystate Marathon is in the books! The weather was a little windy, but otherwise perfect for the runners. Of the 1344 marathon finishers, 335 qualified for Boston. That's a whopping 25%. Add in 1557 half marathon finishers and we had just under 3000 satisfied customers on the day.

Volunteers

Somewhere around 500 volunteers were assembled to make these races happen. A heartfelt thanks to everyone who volunteered their time and energy to put this event on. Without the volunteers the race obviously wouldn't happen -- and it takes an army for a race of this size. A special thanks to the race committee, who devoted time all year to organize this gem of a race.

Racers

Mary Casey-Gorman with another strong showing.
Photo by Jimmy Shelton

The Green not only helped many a runner get to the finish -- several put in great performances of their own. The Half Marathon leader board was riddled with Angry Chickens. Steve Gendron was second overall. Candice Gagnon, Chris Hancock, Ken Cain, Lori McInerny, and Mary Casey-Gorman all placed in their respective age groups.

Sue Bourque sporting a 6 minute PR smile.
Photo by Zona Sharfman

Several GLRR competed in the Marathon as well. Westford's Katie Schroth was 3rd female with an impressive 3:07. Tom Peters won his age group by 6 minutes with a 3:15. Alex Eld ran a 3:01...a 10 minute PR and BQ. Sue Bourque cut 6 minutes off her PR after spending the previous morning on her feet at number pick-up. A nice 'tune-up' for the Stone Cat 50 miler.

Feedback

The feedback on the race has been overwhelmingly positive. The runners greatly appreciated all the volunteers and the organization. One runner even pulled me aside in church to make sure I knew how well organized and friendly the event was. She is considering joining the club due to the experience she had in her first half marathon.