Ambler Area Running Club Expects 700 Runners to Race for a Good Cause

Ambler Area Running Club (AARC)  members and other runners will dash for a good cause during the 12^th annual Phil’s Tavern 5K Run and Kids’ Run July 20.

AARC President Dr. Ian Meyers said 700 people participated in last year’s run that raised $10,000 for area nonprofit organizations.    

Race proceeds this year will be shared with:

• , a land trust that protects the quality and the beauty of the Wissahickon Creek, and preserves and improves local woods, meadows and wetlands.
• Girls on the Run, an experiential learning program for girls age 8 to 13 that addresses their physical, emotional, mental and social well-being
• Norristown Arts Council, an organization that develops, promotes and sustains the Norristown Arts Hill District as a culturally and economically vibrant community.

Meyers said AARC’s board selects race beneficiaries from nominations made by members for both annual races, Phil’s 5K Run and the Frostbite 5-Miler in February. 

Meyers said $20,000 was given to race beneficiaries from this year’s Frostbite 5-Miler.

Runners also have a chance to win cash. Prizes are awarded to the first, second and third place overall males and females, and the top male and female masters, said Meyers.

Runners will take off from in Blue Bell at 7 p.m. on a scenic route with rolling roads.

Running times will be immediately available because Lin-Mark Sports will affix a chip to each runner’s bib that will be pinned to his or her shirt. Lin-Mark will also download and post race results on its website live as the race occurs.

Registrants will receive a commemorative "Tech-Wick" shirt with the race logo, while supplies last. Phil’s Tavern will provide post-race refreshments for runners and their families.

AARC encourages runners to bring old running or athletic shoes to run for reuse. They will be recycled into playground surfaces as part of Nike’s ReUse-A-Shoe program.

Meyers said he expects 700 participants, the maximum number allowed for this course. Applications and detailed information about the event can be downloaded and printed from the club website.  

AARC has 250 to 300 members that meet to stay active, said Meyers. The club sponsors weekly fun runs and track workouts, supports a website for runners in the community, and awards scholarships to runners at each of four local high schools. Information about the running club can be obtained at www.aarclub.com.