Races part of fundraising events to benefit Jake Chalfin
By Blair Sylvester, Correspondent, The Times
Saturday marks a series of fundraising road races to benefit West Marlborough jockey Jake Chalfin, who was paralyzed in a 2010 steeplechase accident. Photo courtesy of Tod Marks
WEST MARLBOROUGH — Those searching for a scenic run, through some of Chester County’s most beautiful vistas, should sign up for Runnymede Trail Run taking place on Saturday.
If you venture out, you will join local runners braving the heat wave in order to participate in the run hosted by Chasin for Chalfin — the organization dedicated to helping paralyzed local jockey Jake Chalfin.
The course designers have very thoughtfully included water crossings to help you cool off. Online registration for the race has closed but you can register in person between 7:30 and 8:15 before the race begins at 8:30. Onsite registration is $35 for adults and $10 for juniors.
Runners can choose between a 5k course and a 15k course. The 15k Runnymede Trail Run is the final race (of four) in the Trail Creek Outfitters Trail Run Series. Runners in this race are competing for prize money. The prize money will be given out to the top three finishers in each age bracket. Within each bracket the top placed male and female will receive $150, the second placed male and female will receive $75, and the third placed male and female will receive $50. For those seeking a more leisurely Saturday outing there is also a 5k run with prizes.
There is also a 3k “on road” walk/run with Jake Chalfin.
There are no prizes in the 3k, save great company and beautiful scenery. The 15k and 5k courses snake through a variety of terrain (including hills, valleys, woods, and water crossings) as it winds towards the finish. A race through beautiful countryside is an apt fundraiser for Chalfin who is a passionate outdoorsman.
Chasin for Chalfin was established soon after Chalfin’s devastating accident, with the goal of raising funds to help him handle the huge costs that accrue from paralysis. Chalfin was injured at the Blue Ridge Fall Races in Berryville, Va. when his horse crashed into an obstacle and he was thrown into the post.
Initial fundraising efforts went towards making Jake’s house and car wheelchair accessible and providing the personal care needed to keep him healthy. If you wish to contribute to Chasin for Chalfin you can donate money online at www.chasinforchalfin.com or participate in the Chasin for Chalfin challenge.
The Chasin for Chalfin challenge is sponsored by the Glen Mills Whole Foods, Landhope Farms, and Mitch’s Market Street Gym. Refreshments will be provided after the race. If you can pull yourself out of bed early, event organizers say the race will be fun trek through beautiful terrain supporting a great cause.
