The Second Annual Lone Gull 10K is September 21, 2008 - The Power of the Atlantic - Scenic Coast and Fast Times
Race along the back shore of historic Gloucester and enjoy spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and Eastern Point. It is certain that this scenic, USATF certified course with its rolling hills is one of the most breathtaking stretches of coast in New England.

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By Noreen Cohen
Posted Monday, 14 July, 2008

September is the ideal time to experience the full bounty of scenic beauty that America’s oldest seaport offers. Participate in the Second Annual Lone Gull 10K and build a memorable racing tradition in the city of Gloucester. The success of last year’s inaugural race has certainly secured this event a place in fine racing traditions.

Spectacular Scenic Course
Runners of every level will be energized by the same amazing Atlantic backdrop that has inspired Hollywood filmmakers to choose this location as a prime movie making location. This truly one-of-a kind 10K course is moderately challenging and fast. What an ideal way to kick off the fall racing season! Grab your PR!

Runners sail off the starting line at 9:00 at the intersection of Atlantic and Nautilus Roads. The course continues on Atlantic Road for 1.5 miles before turning right onto Grapevine Road. Runners continue to make their way along this beautiful course by following this road to the intersection of Eastern Point Road. Eastern Point Road continues to Niles Beach, which offers a terrific view of Boston in the distance as well as the magnificent mansions on Gloucester’s Eastern Point.

A stone gateway leads to Eastern Point Boulevard where runners are treated to the sight of the magnificent Eastern Point Lighthouse. This famed landmark was erected in 1832 to mark the entrance to the harbor and served as the home of artist Winslow Homer in 1880. It is the very same lighthouse used in the filming of the movie The Perfect Storm. The course sweeps to the right at the “One Way” sign and then makes a left onto Lake Avenue which flows past Niles Pond and back onto Eastern Boulevard.

A series of scenic turns marks the next section of the course- a right onto Bemo Avenue followed by a left onto St. Louis Avenue, then a left onto Farrington Avenue will bring runners to the final stretch. From Farrington Avenue runners will take it up a notch as they veer to the left at the top of the hill onto Atlantic Avenue. The finish line beckons as runners journey back to Nautilus Road.

Parking for the race is available in the parking lot of Good Harbor Beach. There is no parking on Nautilus Road.

More Than Running, It’s Remembering
It is through the dedication of race sponsors, Joe and Maryellen Borge of The Lone Gull Coffeehouse (146 Main Street, Gloucester, Massachusetts) and Wes and Melissa Lassen of New England Running Company, a top notch running store in Beverly, that this 10K event is made possible. Their vision and tireless efforts have created an energetic blueprint for raising money for cancer research. The inspiration for The Lone Gull 10K comes from a source close to home for Joe and Maryellen, who lost a family member to prostate cancer in 2000. This event provides a stage to raise awareness for a cause that they care deeply about.

Race proceeds and donations are earmarked for The Lone Gull Charitable Trust, which supports charities that provide much needed cancer research. Last year’s race raised five thousand dollars. Wagering on that initiative’s past success, race director Wes Lassen is hoping to launch an even larger field of runners this year.

Beyond the Finish Line, Bring on the Fun
Grab your friends and family and say hello to a post race party that is brimming with music, good cheer and a wide assortment of delicious food. This one is a sure winner, featuring a sumptuous crowd-pleasing buffet. Non-runners will be able to purchase tickets for the buffet for five dollars. Don’t forget to smile for the camera! Race photos will be available following the race.

Awards
Prize money will be awarded to the top three male and female runners and the top three men’s and women’s teams. Merchandise awards will be given to age group winners.

Last year’s women’s and men’s winners were Heidi Westerling (36:15) and Wilson Perez (32:31). Other winners included Master Division winners Julie Peterson (39:48) and Larry Sayers (32:59). Senior Division winners Deb Touchette and Matt Curran layed down times of (48:00) and (36:39), respectively.

Picturesque Gloucester
Gloucester receives high marks when it comes to the natural beauty of rocky shores and extraordinary beaches. Settled in 1623, America’s oldest seaport boasts a rich New England history. Conveniently located just 35 miles north of Boston, Gloucester is a working city, home to some of the last and best commercial fishing fleets in New England. The famed bronze statue known as the Man at the Wheel is a fitting tribute to the city’s proud legacy.

An internationally celebrated artists colony at Rocky Neck and just enough historic and recreational attractions, including whale watching, sailing, and kayaking are guaranteed to spark interest while in Gloucester. Spend some time at The Cape Ann Museum, (27 Pleasant Street) and it will soon be clear why Gloucester has been a favorite place for artists for generations.

Come see for yourself why this city with its distinctive personality has it all: history, charm, scenic beauty, and recreation. It is all here waiting for you!

Racing Ahead
You will want to register early to receive a technical long-sleeve shirt courtesy of Nike. On-line registration is available. You won’t want to miss this opportunity to do something you love doing for an outstanding cause. Soak in the charm of this historic landmark city while making your own running history. This fast 10K course will give you the opportunity to do just that! The only thing more striking than the rugged Atlantic shore is the incredible race experience that this 10K will most certainly deliver

Related info:
> Event Website

> Event Registration

> Active Running

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