Nearly 900 athletes competed in the 2024 iteration of the Doylestown 5K Race. This year's race boasted a huge turnout as throngs of runners in the 5K and the "Mightiest Mile" flooded the streets of Doylestown borough. The 5K series keeps growing as participant numbers have climbed back to pre-pandemic levels. Race Director Kris Boger was thrilled with the turnout. "I can't thank my volunteers and everyone involved enough. I know Dick Patterson is proudly watching from above." Kris gave a wonderful tribute to the long-time series director before the race, dedicating the event to Dick and his family.

The overall race victories, in addition to the age-graded masters divisions, were hotly contested. The top male winner had a familiar last name. Carson Wiley, the son of multi-time series winner Todd Wiley, outdistanced his closest competitor Ben Wright by 22 seconds. Nicole and Jenn Cronin finished in a virtual tie, with Nicole edging out her sister by a mere fraction of a second. Nancy Smith was again "Masterful" as she dominated the female age-graded masters with an amazing 88.0 score. Todd Wiley out-performed all of the male age-graded runners with an 83.2 and joined his son in the winner's circle.

The long history of this event, with records dating back to 2001, coupled with hot and humid conditions, made setting course records more difficult. However, series runners came through with stellar record-breaking performances. Previous age group records were smashed by the following:

Todd Wiley, M 50-54, 18:07.99

Dan Carroll, M 80-84, 39:08.62

James Hetrick, M 85-89, 57:43.48

Nancy Smith, F 65-69, 22:57.92

Ruth King, F 70-74, 30:33.10

Danielle Millet, F 75-79, 34:03.03

Cathy Morano, F 80-84, 45:43.45

There’s only one more race left in the series this year, the Break-Fast 5K & 10K and 1-Mile Fun Run on Father's Day, Sunday June 16th. This year will be the last time the race is held on Father's Day. Next year we are moving the event to a mid-week evening in early June. Don't miss out on being part of history!

Stand by, in the next few days we'll have updates on series standings and will verify eligibility for the coveted "5K series Jacket".

Johnny King-Marino