Annual 5K attracts over 100 runners
Funds raised for individuals with disabilities
BY JENNIFER KOHLHEPP
Staff Writer

ALLENTOWN - More than 100 runners took to local country roads April 28 to help people with disabilities.

Allies Inc. held its second annual Country Roads 5K at Walnford Park. The event hosted dozens of runners in its 5K run, while others enjoyed the one-mile fun run/walk or the children's run, according to Ashlee Smith, program coordinator.

"The weather was truly spectacular, and we were happy to see many more children this year," Smith said.

Upper Freehold Deputy Mayor Bill Miscoski opened the event by wishing the runners well and speaking about Allies Inc. and its mission.

Allies Inc. is a statewide, nonprofit organization based out of Hamilton that serves individuals with disabilities. The run is one of the organization's major annual fundraisers, though Smith did not provide a total of the funds raised at this year's 5K prior to press time.

The event recognized runner Dan Bailey, of the Cream Ridge section of Upper Freehold, as first-place overall male runner and Adele McDonough, of Belmar, as first-place overall female runner.

Male and female overall winners of first, second and third place received trophies and merchandise prizes. Trophies for male and female first-place winners were presented in seven different age categories, according to Smith, as were merchandise prizes for first-, second- and third-place winners.

Tom Griffith, of Chesterfield, won a prize for guessing the exact number of horses - 44 of them - along the 5K route, Smith said.

Allies Inc. recognized Sarah Bent and her staff at Walnford Park, the staff of Upper Freehold Township and the New Jersey State Police from the Hamilton barracks for their contributions to the event.

Smith said, "We sincerely wish to thank everyone for coming out and making this event a success, especially the great group of runners who participated.

"We truly appreciate all the local merchants who donated prizes and supplies for the event," she added.

Allies Inc. also thanked its volunteers, including Notre Dame High School's service class from the Lawrenceville section of Lawrence, the Monmouth University Dance Team from West Long Branch and the Mercer County Single Volunteers.

Plans are already under way for the third annual Country Roads 5K for spring 2008, Smith said.

"Each year, we learn a little more to make the next year's race special," Smith said.

Allies Inc. will hold its next fundraiser - its fifth annual Casino Night and Silent Auction - Sept. 28. More details about the event and next year's 5K will soon be posted on the Allies Web site at www.alliesnj.org.