Phoenixville Citizen Advocacy Run Review

Although one would think that all organized runs are the same, this is simply not the case. In fact, sometimes it is the time and effort that is put into organizing an event that can make all the difference. After all, the actual act of participating in a run does not vary much from location to location. Rather, it is the time and effort that is put into making that run an enjoyable and memorable experience that makes all of the difference.

From the beginning, Citizen's Advocacy, the group that put together and sponsored the Phoenixville run attempted to make everything as smooth as possible. Registration was easy, and any and all questions that were asked were quickly answered. The staff was friendly and helpful on the day of the race, and made sure that we were prepared and ready to run. Although all the members of the group likely had a lot going on that day (there were several other events as well) they did their best to give their personal attention to each and every person.

The race itself was a pleasant mix of up and down hill segments, along with some straight stretches thrown in as well. At the halfway mark there were organizers giving out water. In another nice touch, there were mile markers set up, and each mile marker had one or two Advocacy members present to give out encouragement and kind words. Even though it was lightly raining, it was not terribly cold outside, and I was very comfortable running in athletic shorts and a t-shirt. There was very good runner support, traffic was directed away from the running route, and there were bathrooms set up if anyone had the need to use them. After the race, everything was written down and the runners were free to go. However, it did not seem as if there was any way that one would be able to get their information. I wrote down my information and asked that my time and place be e-mailed to me. However, as that still has not happened, I retained my place card, and I wrote down at the event that I placed 40^th overall (and 5^th in my age group) and ran the event in 27:02. By far, the best part of the race was seeing the finish line in sight. However, the worst part of the race was definitely the part of the route that took us within 500 feet of a sewage treatment plan. Even though Phoenixville is a very nice place, the smell of the treatment plant sort of dampened the mood a bit.

After the race, we were provided with gifts, including a long sleeve t-shirt, beanie, and a pair of gloves. There was coffee and water provided after the race, as well as oranges and bananas. Sometimes it is not so much the decision to go running or participate in a race, but rather the environment and the people surrounding it that make the major difference. With regards to Phoenixville, it would be very hard to say that the overall experience was anything but incredibly positive. From the friendly and helpful organizers, to the scenic and well thought out loop, there was little left to be desired. Add all of this to the fact that the money raised by the entrance fees went to support Citizen Advocacy, a non-profit group that performs a number of charitable functions, and the experience of running in the race was made even more enjoyable. The event is held around the same time every year, and those who want to participate and enjoy a well-planned and organized experience should definitely consider doing one of the events held that day. In addition to the 5k, a 10k and a one mile "fun run" which can be ran in the Halloween costume of your choice is also available. So, no matter one's preference with running or experience level, there is something to enjoy in Phoenixville. An event which is highly recommended.