Bedford Hills Runners to Get Chip Timing for Road Race

Runners of this year's 'Run for the Hills' road race will receive precise results because of the new enhanced timing system being used, say organizers.

The April 2 event, organized by the Bedford Hills Neighborhood Association, is a 5K race in which runners will wear a chip that uniquely identifies them as they pass mile markers set up throughout the course.

"Last year we literally stood at the end, and manually wrote down race numbers and finish times," said Paula Wallace, BHNA treasurer and race organizer. "This will make it easier for us and give the runners an exact starting time and finish."

In their second time out coordinating a community run, BHNA planners have made a few changes. Increased signage around town has promoted the race to other neighboring communities and they have reached out to more sponsors. Runners and spectators are encouraged to bring boxes of pasta and rice for donations to the Community Center of Northern Westchester.

"We hope to draw people to downtown Bedford Hills and have them appreciate all that our hamlet has to offer," said Wallace. "From shops, to restaurants and other businesses, there's a lot to do, and we hope runners will visit after the race."

The group will also unveil a new community bulletin board immediately following the race, around 10 a.m. in Depot Plaza. The organization's leaders hope the board will be an information hub for the hamlet.

See our previous story on the development of the

The race itself winds through the hamlet and has "a little bit of everything, with downtown and country roads," said Wallace.

It starts out Depot Plaza with an uphill climb to Main Street then South Church Street; a bigger uphill climb is next, to Woodland Street and Bedford Center Road. But, Wallace says, if runners can hang in there, they'll be rewarded with a nice downhill finish.

A description of the course can be found here.

Honors will be awarded to top runners in categories organized by gender and age; one top overall runner from Bedford Hill will also be recognized. Prizes range from gift certificates to local restaurants, membership at the Saw Mill Club and free racing at .

This year's sponsors include Mt. Kisco Honda as the major sponsor, with additional support from POW'R Against Tobacco and Bedford Dental Care. A full list is posted with this story.

Registration can be done online anytime between now and the race on April 2 for $20. Day-of registrations will be accommodated up until 7:30 a.m., for $25. For more information, visit the BHNA website.