The Rundown on the 2016 Broad Street Run
Competitors at the 37th annual Broad Street Run didn't let a little inclement weather rain on their parade.
One of the most anticipated races of the season got off to a running start at the intersection of Broad Street and W. Fisher Avenue, and the pavement pounders paced down Philly's main artery until they reached the finish line at the Navy Yard. The soggy streets were an additional obstacle in an already lengthy 10-mile course. However, there was nothing but smiles, Philly soft pretzels and celebrations at the finish line.
If you blinked, you would miss the fast paced, elite runners crossing the finish line. Fans cheered on 24-year-old New York native Abebe Mekuria as he triumphantly crossed the finish line at a winning time of 48:42:58. Mathew Kiplagat, closely trailed Mekuria, and placed second in the men's group. Crystal Burnick, of Skippack, Pa., led the female pack finishing at 57:04:08. Emily Giannotti of Ephrate, Pa. won second place, and Amanda Scott of Boulder, Colo. placed third.
Burnick celebrated her win with her fiancé and fellow competitor, Bob Bacon, by her side. The Broad Street Run is the first of many exciting occasions for them this year, as the couple will marry in early November. This year marks Burnick's fifth time participating in the race.
Burnick attributes the day's success to her running coach, who encouraged her to approach the event conservatively. "My coach instructed me not to run too fast, and to pace myself. The people running near me during the race also helped keep me at a good pace, and motivated throughout the miles." Burnick relied on the trails of Valley Forge for training.
A fun Philly fact: The Blue Cross Broad Street Run is the largest 10-mile race in the United States. As many as 40,000 runners took part in the race. The runners were treated like rockstars, as they were greeted by cheering fans, family and friends who lined the course. Participants crossed the finish line with the sights and sounds of the colorfully costumed Polish American String Band. Racers could be found recuperating, seeking refuge from the rain and refueling on the refreshment lined field after they crossed the finish line.
Congratulations to all of the participants, volunteers, EMT staff and officers who helped make this year's Broad Street Run a success!
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