45th Pretzel 5K Scheduled

"It's a great course, and we can (accommodate) a lot of (runners)," said Ron Stief, program director with the Lititz recCenter. Stief noted that the Pretzel Twist course was changed in 2018 to place it more in the borough and less along farmland roads. This year, Stief hopes to see 250 runners complete the event.

The 45th annual Pretzel Twist 5K will start at the recCenter, 301 W. Maple St., Lititz, on Saturday, Sept. 17. Day-of registration will begin at 7 a.m., and the run will start at 8 a.m. A special 1-mile kids' run will be held at 7:45 a.m.

Stief said the course is fast. "If you are looking to get a personal best, this is the 5K," he said. The route leaves the recCenter and goes up Spruce Street through Sutter Village and into the Warwick Woodlands. Stief pointed out there is one slight hill on Marion Street. The only water stop is located near the 2-mile mark, but the configuration of the course causes runners to pass it twice. Because it travels through neighborhoods, the route is often lined with local spectators. "It's kind of cool that people are out cheering and encouraging the runners," Stief said.

Members of the Lititz Borough Police Department will man the course, and Warwick School District sports team members will volunteer to help out.

Teams of four, made up of all males, all females, or mixed with two and two, are encouraged. Corporate teams including 10 or more participants may also take part. Top overall male and female, individual winners in first, second, and third places will receive cash prizes. In keeping with the theme, pretzel awards will be given to top-place finishers in 13 age groups.

The kids' run for children ages 3 to 12, will be overseen by recCenter staff members Craig Persing and Bernadette Cisney. The 1-mile out-and-back course will run from the recCenter to Limerock Road. The clock will run during the event, but no prizes will be awarded. "We want it to be fun for the kids," said Cisney. Stief echoed her comment, noting it encourages interest in exercise and a healthy lifestyle.

The Pretzel Twist is the third event of the Triple Crown, a three-race competition that is held in cooperation with the Ephrata and Hempfield recreation centers. Stief said about 50 runners join in competing in the trifecta.

Readers who wish to register for the 5K as individuals may do so at http://www.lititzrec.com. A discount and a lightweight cotton T-shirt will be included for those who register online by Thursday, Sept. 8, or whose entry is postmarked that date. Groups wishing to register as teams may email ronstief@lititzrec.com or call 717-626-5096, ext. 229.