25th annual Litchfield Hills Road Race

June 10, 2001 by Francine Ronan

The kids race started off an exciting day in Litchfield on June 10th, and the streets were lined up with people sitting on beach chairs, having picnics. Great to see a few PRC folks in the line-up, Francine Ronan and JD Speedracer Donnelly! Thanks toAndy Ronan, we have been introduced to this wonderful race! Andy, former winner of the race, was planning to run but unfortunately was hit with a frying pan by his pregnant wife...just kidding, anyway , broke his leg. So in his place (not in his time, mind you) Francine and Baby Ronan line up to represent the Ronan's in the 25th running of the race. JD was right there and we both plugged our ears when the CANNON went off to start the race. Within 10 seconds JD was out of site...go JD go!!! Seven miles to go...

The course is beautiful, streets were lined with firetrucks to hose you down, bands/music along the way to get you up the big hills. Gallows lane is a HUGE hill at about mile 6, many supporters were there motivating you up the hill. Maryrose was there with camera cheering us on and Andy was around the corner for support at the last 1/2 mile. JDwas probably already getting a massage and drinking fluids (the Village Pub is right at the finish line!)by the time Francine and Baby Ronan crossed thefinish line!

This is definitely a home town race, you would loveit!! Hope to see more PRC folks in the line-up next year! Once you run it, it will become tradition to head to Litchfield the second Sunday of June in years to come! Did I mention there was a bar at the finish line?