Western Sussex Chamber, under the direction of Seashore Striders, sponsored the first part of our Broad Creek Bash on Saturday, Aug. 29. The 5K run/walk and bike ride were supposed to be the previous Saturday (Aug. 22), but late summer weather in Delaware had other plans. The bike ride is rescheduled for Oct. 24. The Chamber was unable to schedule both parts on the same day, so the event was divided into two parts to make it happen.  

Fifty runners of all ages came out for the 3.2-mile run. The day was beautiful, and thanks to our volunteers and Tim Bamforth’s (Sea Shore Striders Director) expertise, the race was a successful event. Western Sussex Chamber would also like to thank our chamber volunteers Tom and Christine Darby, Tidal Health Volunteers, Ashley Parker, Mark Maier and the Seashore Strider Group. A special shout-out to Laurel Police, who kept our runners safe on the roads and the town of Laurel for their support.

Matt Parker, runner and Chamber President, said, “The course was great. The roads were well marked and well monitored. It was a very hard decision to postpone the event and then divide it into two parts. However, the morning was so pleasant and conducive to running that it solidified that we made the right call. All runners were given a voucher to come back to Janosik Park for the after-party of the bike ride rescheduled for Oct. 24. We hope some of the runners may decide to bring their bikes and ride. I was proud that we were able to regroup and make this happen even if it wasn’t according to plan. I believe showcasing our byways and waterways in western Sussex County is important. It shows visitors and residents the quiet beauty of our area.

“With that said, on Saturday, Oct. 24, Western Sussex Chamber will host its 13th annual 25-mile, 50-mile and metric century 62-mile ride.  Charlie and the Cool Tones and Dogfish Head Beer and Benevolence will be at the after-party. There will be food trucks available and, hopefully, we will have a beautiful fall day to complete part two of the Broad Creek Bash. We have reopened registration in case there are riders who still want to participate,” said Parker.

In other Western Sussex Chamber news, nominations are being accepted for Business Person of the Year, Trail Blazer of the Year, Community Person of the Year and Legacy of Work Member. The deserving recipients will be celebrated at our Fall Holiday Dinner in November. The Chamber has several ribbon cuttings scheduled in the next month.  

Please check the website at www.westernsussexcoc.com or contact Suzanne and Terry at admin@westernsussexcoc.com for more information.