The spring racing season is just around the corner and what better way to kick it off than to run the fourth annual Newtown Shamrock Shuffle 5K.
This event has become a fixture on the Bucks County calendar, mainly because it offers much more than just a 3.1-mile race.
In 2019, the race falls on Saturday, March 16, just a day before St. Patrick’s Day, so that should add some extra energy to the festivities because, hey, it’s a chance to get started early on the holiday celebration.
“We are excited,’’ says race director Chris Seiler. “It feels great to be able to bring a fun, family-friendly event back to the community we grew up in.’’
The race, scheduled to begin at 9 a.m., starts and finishes at the Green Parrot restaurant. And the after-party, namely the Irish Festival, is like no other.
Of course, the race couldn’t go off without the support of Newtown.
“We are thankful to the local municipalities and police for their continued support of the event,’’ Seiler says. “Not only is it great to run a 5K and see the beauty of Newtown but it is also rewarding to bring aboard local charities who use this race as a platform to raise money for their causes.’’
Supporting the race are Caroline’s Hope team and Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, along with volunteers from A Love For Life.
“This event helps us give back to our community in many ways,’’ Seiler says.
The race is expected to draw upwards of 800 runners.
Added Shamrock Shuffle race committee’s Carly Seiler Bovell: “We have really grown this event each year but we continue to stay focused on the participant experience. We want our runners to have fun, be safe and look forward to being a part of the event every year.’’
Pre-registration ends on Thursday, March 14.
“Registration numbers are up again this year,’’ Bovell says, “so we encourage people to register now to get a spot.’’
Participants receive a custom runner’s bib, a finisher’s medal, quality shirt and entry into the Irish Festival.
Green Parrot owner/manager Bob Lutz looks forward to putting on a first-class event.
“It is a privilege for the Green Parrot to throw a St. Patrick’s Day event that is embraced by an overwhelming amount of people,’’ Lutz says. “It showcases our beautiful town, including businesses, shops and restaurants.
“Newtown always steps up to the plate to deliver a destination for people to enjoy.’’
Thousands have attended this event in the past. It includes live entertainment, dancing and refreshments.
Live musical acts feature Secret Service and the Juliano Brothers. The show winds up with famed Delaware Valley comedian Joe Conklin.
For more information, visit www.newtownshamrockshuffle.com.
>10TH annual Bucks County Duathlon opens Friday
Can it be 10 already?
We’re referring to the Bucks County Duathlon and 8K Challenge, which will celebrate its 10th running on Sunday, Sept. 1, 7 a.m., at Washington Crossing Historic Park.
The BCD has grown in popularity over the years and continues to be the only multi-sport race based in Lower Bucks County.
Proceeds benefit the Missy Flynn Fund. Flynn survived a brain aneurysm injury in 2005 and continues to lead a full life in Newtown with the aid of her partner, Brian Wong.
Registration opens at 12 noon Friday (tomorrow) and applications can be found at www.linmarksports.com.
The race’s website is www.buckscountyduathlon.org.
Athletes continue to praise the scenic, fast duathlon course, which consists of a pair of two-mile runs on the Delaware Canal towpath plus a 10-mile bicycle segment along the Delaware River and through some challenging hills in Upper Makefield.
The 8K Challenge was added last year and most of the course is also held on the Delaware Canal towpath.
The BCD is a way to create great memories on Labor Day weekend. So if you haven’t experienced it before, give it a shot this year.
Race calendar
Sunday
Bucks County Roadrunners Winter Series Half-Marathon (13.1 miles), 9 a.m., Tyler State Park, Newtown. Contact www.bcrrclub/winterseries.
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