War of the Roses, a collaboration run between LRRC, YRRC and Run PA, was a battle between the Red Rose City of Lancaster and the White Rose City of York that took place on Halloween. The runner’s challenge was to traverse Route 462, starting at Lancaster Central Market, and finishing at York Central Market for a total of 24 miles.
Several of the runners opted to run the entire course, while others partnered up to run a relay version of the race. The run also featured a roving team of volunteers that provided support along the way including lots of cheering, cowbells, food, and costumes. Each individual runner, relay team, and volunteer scored points for their respective city’s team based on their participation and finish. The start of the race featured a brilliant rainbow that saw the participants off on their adventure. As the
runners worked their way through Lancaster City, they were met with a persistent rain that lasted for the majority of the run. The sun emerged upon entering the York area, and as runners finished, they were met by an amazing group of volunteers that provided great vibes, more cowbells, and a spread of goodies.
Lancaster runner, James Weaver, edged out our own Eric Ferree for the race win, but the White Rose City prevailed with the overall win thanks to the sheer number of participants, volunteers and finishers that represented the YRRC Team. Final score: York 12 – Lancaster 8.
We hope to see another strong YRRC showing next year!!
What year was the Marathon of the Roses run from York to Lancaster? I have the newspaper clipping and know it was on Sept. 8 but don’t remember the year. I ran two lengths of the relay on a team. Can’t find anything on it online. Thanks.
This was a group run collab between Lancaster Road Runners and York Road Runners. I believe the first running was in 2021.