July 11, 2002
THURSDAY FUN RUNS CONTINUE THEIR SUCCESSFUL "RUN"

A few weeks ago, in an attempt to increase participation in the Fun Runs, the AARC Board decided to try something different.  Fun Runs were moved from Monday evening to Thursday evening, and we sent out e-mails letting everyone know of the new time, that we would provide "lead" runners, and that we would have slower and shorter runs as well as more brutal runs for those who prefer that.  (Some runners went 3-4 miles, others went 6.   Paces ranged from about 7.5 minute miles to 10+ minute miles.)

The result was dramatic.  We had a much larger turnout than we've had in a long time, and participants expressed that they liked the new time and variety of offerings.  Pictured here are some of the runners who...
...  well, okay, these aren't really the people who came to the Fun Run.  You can tell from the way they're dressed that this is the starting line for this year's Frostbite 5-Mile run.

The first Thursday night run was so successful (see previous group picture by clicking here) that the next one brought more runners, despite an unforgettable Thunderstorm.

On July 11, even more runners showed up with varying speeds and running styles, and were treated to two (2) welcome improvements.  First of all, a new course was charted by Board member Sean Smith, starting behind the Pike Restaurant and running past Rohm & Haas on a much more pleasant and safe route than previously endured on Bethlehem Pike.  Secondly, following the runs, runners gathered in the parking lot to enjoy some post-run beverages and refreshments.

"Fun Runners" can be seen by clicking on the pictures below, showing their joy of running and their joy of being done running.  Next Fun Run is slated for Thursday, July 18 (day after the Phil's Tavern 5K).  As usual, stretching starts at 6:45 at Born To Run in Springhouse, and running begins promptly at 7:00 (well, maybe a little less promptly if we know someone's running 5 minutes late -- we'll wait for you if you call (215-641-0410) and let us know.

BEFORE	AFTER

   Click here for news about next week's Fun Run.