Second Largest Women’s Race in Maryland Coming to Havre de Grace on April 10; Annual 5K By the Bay to Benefit Seniors in Need

From Harford County government:

Set along the charming waterfront city of Havre de Grace, the Annual Women’s 5K By the Bay race will be held Sunday, April 10, 2011 beginning at 8:00 AM in Tydings Park, 350 Commerce Street, Havre de Grace (Race Day registration is from 6:45-7:45 AM).

This fun event is a women-only 5K race for runners and walkers of all ages and abilities, and is benefiting the Harford County Department of Community Services’ Office on Aging Senior Emergency Fund. The Senior Emergency Fund was established to help local senior citizens in time of need when they have nowhere else to turn. Through the Office on Aging’s outreach staff, the fund provides financial assistance to seniors who may need emergency help with payments for medical, prescription, dental, utilities, or other vital services. Every dollar donated to this fund directly meets a fundamental need for a senior in our community.

Race Registration is $30; $35 on race day (women age 60 and over will receive $10 off). Registration is available on line at www.charmcityrun.com, at packet pick-up and on race day. Packet pick-ups are available Friday, April 8 from 3-7:00 PM and Saturday, April 9 from 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM at Charm City Run, 126 S. Main Street in Bel Air. Call 410-838-3243 for more information.

Prizes, including a small flat screen television and various gift certificates to Harford County restaurants and shops, as well as awards (donated by Saxon’s Diamond Center), will be handed out. Sponsors include Harford Pharmacy, Saxon’s Diamond Centers, Lorien, Avondell, Gold Medal Physical Therapy, Mariner Finance, Charm City Run, Bobby’s Pottys, Island Jack, Lenore Hammond & Associates, and Huber Corporation.

Harford County Executive David Craig will hand out the awards and Havre de Grace Mayor Wayne Dougherty will serve as the official starter. Havre de Grace Police will be along the course, as will numerous volunteers to provide assistance.

“I am honored to be a part of this event,” stated County Executive David R. Craig. “Not only is it a way for families and friends to have fun together, but it serves a greater purpose in helping our most vulnerable citizens.”

As the second largest women’s race in Maryland, each year the Women’s 5K By the Bay draws top runners and walkers, ranging in age from 8 to 70. In 2010 there were 508 registered runners and walkers from Maryland, Virginia, Washington D.C., and Pennsylvania.

“I have been running for 37 years with over 550 races, including 11 marathons,” says Sue Jacobs, Race Director. “Last year was my first time directing a race and I truly enjoyed the experience. I hope to always attract all abilities of runners and walkers and would like to thank everyone for supporting our event, and even more importantly, for helping us to honor and serve our community’s greatest treasures – our senior citizens.”

The Women’s 5K By the Bay Race Entry Form can be found on www.RASAC.com and www.charmcityrun.com. To view the course map, visit http://www.usatf.org/routes/view.asp?rID=192164.

For more information on the Women’s 5K By the Bay, please visit www.RASAC.com or email Sue Jacobs, Race Director, at gusandsuerun@comcast.net.

For more information on the Harford County Department of Community Services’ Office on Aging Senior Emergency Fund, visit www.harfordcountymd.gov/services/aging or call 410-638-3025.