The YMCA Bucks County Strong 5K “Returned Home” on May 11th. The day was a beautiful day, sandwiched between many dreary ones. The race celebrated the unification of all of the YMCAs in Bucks County. The race benefited the Y’s financial assistance program – no one is turned away from the Y.

After several years off-campus, the race returned home to the Doylestown YMCA. It featured an exciting finish on the track at CB West High School. The Fun Run was staged completely on the track, with 4 laps in front of cheering crowds. The weather and the venue attracted 25% more runners than last year.

The first 3 women runners were Megan Ciasullo in 19:34, Melissa Palmero (19:53), and Stephanie Savastano (20:33). For the men, Steve Gourley was first in 16:24, while Alex Izewski (16:46) and Drew Kalbach (16:50) were 2nd and 3rd.

We also award the top Masters Age-graded finishers. The ratings are based on a world-wide data base. A 90% rating is world class, 80% is national class, and 70% is regional class. For the men, Todd Wiley (84.5%), Steve Gourley (83.5%), and Bob Pultorak (82.2%) were all national class. Nancy Smith (87.0%) and Gert Freas (83.6%) were also national class. Jana Discala (77.6%) was close behind.

For the younger set, Malia Mucahy, Evan Morrow, Jessica Mauer, and Shaun Pello all turned in outstanding performances. Series winners, overall and age group, are based on your 4 best races. The Series Standings after the first 4 races are now posted Bucks 5K Series Standing Results.

For more information, and to register for this and any of the future races, please go to bucks5kseries.com

See you at the races.

Dick Patterson