"We Are Running in Montgomery County"

Saturday, June 18, 2005, is dedicated to the ladies as the Montgomery County Road Runners Club (MCRRC) presents the annual "Run for Roses 5K" Women's Distance Festival. Runners and walkers of all ages and abilities are invited to participate in this annual event starting 8:00 AM at Wheaton Regional Park. Run for Roses is one of eleven Women's Distance Festivals in the Maryland Grand Prix Series. For more information, go to the Maryland RRCA Web site.

In 1979, Women's Distance Festivals were developed as a series of races designed to celebrate women's running and to publicize the lack of a women's marathon in the Olympics. In 1980, the first Women's Distance Festivals were held in mid-July to coincide with the running of the men's marathon in the Moscow Olympics. Now that women's distance events play a major part in the Olympics, Women's Distance Festivals continue to offer a special atmosphere for athletes of all levels. These participants continue to carry the torch for women's running.

The 3.1-mile trek will begin at the train station and follow a scenic course through the woods, along the lake and around beautiful Brookside Gardens. As befits the name of the race, each runner will be presented a long-stem rose and finisher certificate as they cross the finish line. Then enjoy some refreshments or a post-race massage while waiting for the awards ceremony. Awards will be given to the top three overall, first master, mid-pack finisher, first two in each age group and the first three mother-daughter teams. You must be present to win the coveted random awards. Also, a special tribute will be paid to a deceased club member.

For kids 12 and under, there will be free 1/4 mile and 1/2 mile young runs at 7:45 AM. Every kid will receive a ribbon and refreshments at the finish line. Race-day registration only.

Registration and detailed information is available on the MCRRC website or call (301) 353-0200. This year's premium is a Brooks Coolmax shirt for an additional fee. Race day registration and packet pick-up will begin a 7 a.m. at the train station.

To get to Wheaton Regional Park, take I-495 to Georgia Avenue North. Go north on Georgia Ave to Shorefield Road (2.7 miles). Turn right, the park entrance is at the end of Shorefield Road.

The "Run for Roses 5K" encourages all females to come out and experience the camaraderie and support of a women's-only race. Whether you're a beginner or competitive athlete, it's an experience you won't forget - Celebrate women's running!

Last year's results