ChesLen Chase race set for Oct. 21

COATESVILLE » Runners of all ages and ability are invited to race through scenic and challenging terrain for Natural Lands’ fourth annual ChesLen Chase for Open Space. The race will be on Saturday, Oct. 21, at 11 a.m. at the 1,263acre ChesLen Preserve in Coatesville.

“ChesLen Chase is a blast!” said Kelly Ann Baker, who participated in a previous ChesLen Chase. “I am a seasoned trail runner and was very impressed by the challenging course! The trail was very well marked and you can’t beat the after-party with Victory. This is a great race to run if you are training or just want to have fun.”

Runners can choose from three courses — a 10K run, a 5K run, and a 2-mile fun run-walk — all of which traverse ChesLen Preserve’s scenic landscapes. The demanding trails of the 10K and 5K will take runners across open fields, through dense woodlands, and around marshy wetlands, steep hills, and a creek crossing. The 2-mile fun runwalk leads folks around a loop trail with magnificent views of the preserve.

This year Natural Lands will be registering teams for ChesLen Chase. Teams of 8 or more receive a $5 per person discount. The top 10K and top 5K team will receive an award.

Racers will enjoy a post-race party with BBQ, drinks, and live music. Event sponsor Victory Brewing Company provides one free beer (age 21 and older) to all participants. Additional beer is available for purchase. Awards will be given out on the pavilion of the Lenfest Center, where racers can relax next to a crackling fire.

Runners of all ages and experience levels are welcome. All registrants ages 13 and up will receive an exclusive race T-shirt. (Pre-registration is required to guarantee shirt size and availability.)

Registration is $45 for the 10K race, $35 for the 5K race, and $25 for the 2-mile fun run/walk. Kids ages 12 and under are free but must be registered to participate. Runners receive a $5 discount if they register on or before Oct. 5. Members of Natural Lands receive an additional $5 discount. Learn more and register online at natlands.org/cheslenchase.