Runners compete in the 1st annual Greenway 5K in 2014
In 2014, our Green Team presented us with an idea. Tasked with finding a way to get our community outside, active, and enjoying the parks Lawrence has to offer, they came up with the Greenway 5K -- a community fun run/walk along the newly opened Spicket River Greenway. The event would become the perfect complement to GWL’s mission and work--engaging our residents to spend time outdoors practicing healthy lifestyles.
That first year, led by the Green Team, the 5K had about 100 participants. Starting at Kennedy Playstead and running most of the 3.1 miles along Spicket River Greenway, the race ended at Pemberton State Park along the Merrimack River. It was both a community event and a celebration of the new or recently renovated parks GWL completed in partnership with the City and the community.
By 2016, two newly created parks had opened along the Greenway, and thus the 5K altered its course. Now starting at Manchester Street Park and ending at Ferrous Urban Wild, the race wound its way along the Spicket River through nine parks that had been revitalized as a result of the hard work of GWL and our community partners. This is the same route the race follows today, and last year we had a record number of participants - over 180 - and a record fast time - 18:16 - on the course. The Green Team, although comprised of different youth than those that started the race, still plays an integral role in planning and executing the event.
Like everything else this year, the Greenway 5K is changing to adjust to our current situation. This event has become a pillar of our community engagement and, although with a different approach, will press on outside the boundaries of the Spicket River Greenway. Outside the boundaries of Lawrence. Of Massachusetts! With new challenges also come new opportunities. The GWL 5K is now truly a boundless event, anyone, no matter where they are or how they choose to complete it, can take part. All you have to do is sign up (its free - although donations are appreciated!), run or walk a 5K near you, and post a picture with the hashtags #GWLBoundless #VirtualGreenway5k #LawrenceMA.
So what are you waiting for? This is your chance to take part in the annual Lawrence tradition, whether inside the boundaries of the city or out. Sign up today, or visit our webpage for more information.
A crowd of eager runners/walkers listen to the kick-off before the start of the 2019 race