Mendham's Harvest Hustle 5k Run
October 22nd, 2009
Is there anywhere more beautiful than autumn in northern New Jersey? I don’t think so. Now add to that natural beauty, colonial history, top-rated schools, small town community events, shopping and commuting convenience, and its no wonder this area is so sought-after by homebuyers.
Since I live and work in this beautiful area, I was lucky enough to take part in a local small town event recently here in Mendham—the Harvest Hustle 5k Run.
The Mendham Borough Home & School Association (MBHSA) presented this first-year fundraiser event. The inspiration was to offer a fall outdoor activity with wide appeal for the community, open to participants of all ages. A staunch advocate for this event was Sgt Richard Morales, a Mendham police officer and father of four school-aged children. A runner himself, as well as a DARE officer and EMT member in town, Sgt Morales, designed the race course and addressed town level issues, such as road closures. Sadly, this past April, Sgt. Morales died suddenly of natural causes. His passing was a blow felt throughout the community. The MBHSA decided to dedicate this event in thankful and loving memory to Sgt Richard Morales.
Sgt. Morales’ family and friends were out in force as the Harvest Hustle 5k Run was held Oct 3rd 2009. The day began early and overcast, but the rain held off, and it was neither too hot nor too cold. Although advance registrations were satisfying to the organizers, the day-of-race registrations ballooned to just under 500, securing the Harvest Hustle a place in next year’s events calendar. A matching number of spectators lined the streets of the course to cheer on the runners.
The race began at the Mendham Borough Municipal Park gazebo, wound through the nearby streets for just over 3 miles, and finished at the end of Orchard Street, behind Mountain View School. Prizes were awarded to the top three finishers in each 5-year age group, with the awards ceremony held back at the starting line gazebo.
It was delightful to see runners in their late 70’s…and one runner over 80! (As you might expect, our one 80+ gentleman ran away with the top prize in his age group!) And although most participants lived locally–Mendham, Chester, Long Valley, Randolph, Mt Olive, and Chatham–some were from more distant NJ towns, such as Hackettstown, Summit, Scotch Plains and Hoboken. Surprisingly, there were even participants from outside New Jersey. Among the top finishers were runners from New York, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Virginia and Georgia!
Additionally, a half-mile “Fun Run” around the borough ball fields, for children 2 years of age and up, was held before the main event. All finishers of that race received a medal to commemorate their achievement.
The Harvest Hustle did what its planners hoped it would do and more. It brought out a large cross-section of the community for a fun outdoor activity. It attracted runners young and old, and from near and far. It involved local businesses, including our Turpin Realtors-Mendham office, as sponsors of goods and services and race day volunteers. And as a fundraiser, it was a huge success, collecting over $10,000. All proceeds will benefit the Mendham Borough HSA educational enrichment goals, with a portion towards a tribute to Sgt Morales.
Turpin-Mendham associates Brian Hays, John Schott and I look forward to volunteering for this fun and worthwhile community event again next fall.
Posted by:
Alaina May Pyontek
