WESTFIELD-Vanessa Diana considers the Frank Stanley Beveridge Wildlife Sanctuary at Stanley Park a “mecca” for runners, walkers and hikers.
“The wildlife sanctuary is a hidden gem in the city,” said Diana, prior to running the trail on Monday morning. Diana and co-chair Alejandro Paredes are spearheading the fifth Run Stanley 5K cross-country run/walk which raises funds for repairs and maintenance to the trail system.
Karin George of Florence and her wire-haired Pointing Griffon “Hudson” are followed by Manny Sardinha of Westfield and his Portugese Water Dog “Hunter” during a Run Stanley fundraiser. (Ben Kimball photo)
The first Run Stanley in 2012 raised funds to replace a bridge along the River Trail that was washed away in a winter storm, and subsequent Run Stanley fundraisers have helped purchase materials for a second bridge and improved directional signage in the sanctuary which ensures the trail will be easier to navigate.
“We will file a notice of intent with the Westfield Conservation Commission for its second meeting in September to build a second bridge in a swampy area of the sanctuary,” said Robert McKean, managing director, Stanley Park.
Run Stanley is slated Oct. 15, rain or shine, with registration and bib pick up from 8:30 to 10 a.m. in the vicinity of the children’s pavilion. Hot drinks and doughnuts will be provided by Dunkin Donuts of Westfield, one of the event’s major sponsors. A “finish line party” will also be observed in the area adjacent to the children’s pavilion. Water will be available at the finish area and at the halfway point along the course.
Vanessa Diana encourages local runners and walkers to participate in the fifth Run Stanley to benefit the Frank Stanley Beveridge Wildlife Sanctuary at Stanley Park.
“For first timers it is a chance to discover the wildlife sanctuary trails which are beautiful,” said Diana, noting that volunteers will be strategically located along the course to ensure no one becomes lost.
“For those who know the course, returning to participate is a chance to have fun with friends, neighbors, and the community,” she added.
Run Stanley encompasses several options for participants, including a Munchkin Run for kids up to age 13. The fun run starts at 10:30 a.m. and includes a 3/4 mile course around the park’s athletic fields, starting and finishing at the “Finish Line” near the children’s pavilion. The Munchkin Run is not timed.
“There is a special offer to the first 100 Munchkin Run registrants,” said Diana, noting that by entering coupon code DD2017 on the registration form, Dunkin Donuts will pay $10 toward the $18 fee. Participants will receive a Run Stanley race shirt if registered by Sept. 16.
Vanessa Diana, a committee member of the fall Run Stanley fundraiser at Stanley Park, discusses logistics with Robert McKean, managing director, Stanley Park, on Monday morning.
Also unique to the Run Stanley event is its K9 5K walk/run category with a start time of 11 a.m. K9 participants will start before the general 5K and each registered dog will receive a Run Stanley race bandanna and bib number. The K9 owner will receive a Run Stanley shirt. A prize will be awarded to the first finisher in the canine category.
The 5K Trail Run/Walk will start at 11:15 a.m. and the course will take participants over the new bridge. Terrain includes grass, gravel, single-track trail, wood and plastic bridges and a few feet of asphalt. The course is “mildly technical,” with roots and rocks to negotiate, one steep decline in the first quarter mile, and short climbs in the final one-third mile. Due to these navigational spots, strollers are not recommended and participants are advised to use caution.
After the race, winners will be announced in several categories, ranging from “overall” and “team,” to “K9.” Additionally, age-group winners will be feted and a “13 and under” category has been established. A Stanley Cup School Spirit contest is also featured and will be awarded to the school with the most participants at Run Stanley (5K and/or Munchkin Run). Winners will receive awards donated by local businesses and supporters of Stanley Park.
Before, during and after the race, participants and their guests will also be treated to music provided by Westfield State University’s WSKB Community Radio 89.5.
Registration fees for students (K-12 and college) participating in the 5K walk or run is $18 and the cost for adults is $33. A race shirt is guaranteed to those registered by Sept. 16; remaining shirts will be given out as available. The cost for the K9 category is $38 which includes one dog and its owner. The fee includes a bandanna for the dog and race shirt for the owner if registered by Sept. 16.
Also unique to this event is a “vendor village,” including a health and wellness section, K9 vendors, and children’s activities. Local businesses, service providers and organizations are welcome to share information with and offer promotional coupons to runners, walkers and their families, however, sales are not permitted. At press time, Fast Feet of Westfield, the YMCA of Greater Westfield, Cornerstone Kids Dentistry of Agawam, Westfield State University and IQ Ink & Dynamic Embroidery of Chicopee have signed up as sponsors and/or vendors. Also, Phyllisa Phillips of G.I.L.T.E. Bakery Service in Westfield will also be donating cupcakes and snack mixes to participants.
“We have also just received a sponsorship of $25,000 from a friend of Stanley Park of Westfield,” said Gina Delmastro of the Development Department.
For more information on sponsorship opportunities ($100 to $1,000), as well as to register or volunteer for the event, visit www.runstanley.com, or contact Hillary McEwan or Delmastro in the Development Department, (413) 568-9312.
Run Stanley committee members working with Diana, Paredes, McEwan and Delmastro include Janet Garcia and Carolyn Stocker, along with a host of volunteers.
“Volunteers are still needed to help set up and break down the event, work registration and the Munchkin Run, and to cheer on participants,” said Diana, adding that Westfield State University students and the city’s high school students also work together in a variety of volunteer roles.
“It’s a good partnership,” she said. “Stanley Park is an integral part of students’ lives.”
Diana also acknowledged the participation of the Empire One Running Club that hosts Monday night cross-country races from May through September at Stanley Park.
“Empire One members will provide the timing for the race,” said Diana, noting their support is a thank-you gesture for using the “beautiful setting” for their Monday night three-mile runs.
“Not everyone explores the sanctuary when they visit the park,” said Diana. “Visitors don’t know how beautiful it is here. This hidden treasure is a mecca for runners and hikers.”
