Hale 5K Series to Return April 29

Runners get ready. Even if you're not participating in this year's Boston Marathon, you'll still have plenty of chances to hit the ground in Westwood this year. 

Later this month, will begin its annual series of 5K races.

"Nine years ago, we started the triathlon, and it was a big fundraiser to increase camp scholarships," said Paula McLaughlin, Public Relations Director for Hale Reservation. "What we did was have a series of 5K races, and they are described loosely as 5Ks, because it's very hard to get exactly 3.1 miles on our trails."

The series will kick off on Sunday, April 29 at 9 a.m. and will be followed on June 24 at 9 a.m. with an obstacle challenge or "adventure race."

"I don't know if that's more of a race, or actually a challenge to oneself," she said. "We are still working out the details, but we are working with some folks of the Boston Police Academy and Boston Police Runners Club. It should be really fun. We're supporting helping disadvantaged kids come to camp and it was just a natural match to work with the academy, and they have such a huge emphasis on fitness."

On July 21, Hale will hold a race and walk that will start at Membership Beach in memory of Julia Brune, Hale's membership and marketing director who passed away last year. 

On Aug. 26, Hale will host a 5K in which it will invite local cross country teams to come and compete. Such a race was in the works for last summer, but was cancelled due to Hurricane Irene. 

Sept. 9 will mark the annual , and on Sept. 29 Hale will have a team in the annual Rodman Ride, through which participants can ride 25, 50 or 100 miles to raise money for a good cause. 

On Oct. 21, Hale will hold a four-mile run to and from Powissett Peak.

"We'll wrap this series in January with a race," McLaughlin said. 

To register for any portion of the 5K series or to see results from the 2011 series, visit the Hale Reservation website.