Martha’s Vineyard 20-miler brought it all

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Colorfully dressed for a winter road race, the field of runners began the Martha's Vineyard 20 Miler on Water Street in Vineyard Haven. — Photo by Susan Safford

The Martha’s Vineyard 20 Miler is described as a “must race for die-hard runners of many levels.” On Saturday, that spirit was evident as runners of every sort headed out in grueling weather conditions that included cold wind, rain, and sleet.

Ryan Aschenbrenner, 35, of Nashua, New Hampshire was the winner in the men’s open division, according to complete results posted at www.coolrunning.com. He finished the course in 1:58.23.

Karen Meraw, 27, of Shelby Township, Michigan won the women’s division in 2:13:34.

Shawn McCormack, 34, of West Tisbury was the first Islander across the line in 2:33:40, good for 78th place overall.

A total of 364 runners finished the race. They came from all six New England states, as well as New York, Pennsylvania, Michigan, New Jersey, Kentucky, and Texas, according to race registrations.

The race began at the Vineyard Haven Steamship Authority terminal. The runners followed Beach Road through Oak Bluffs to Edgartown, then along West Tisbury Road, right onto Barnes Road, right again onto Edgartown-Vineyard Haven Road, left onto County Road to the finish at the Oak Bluffs School.

The 16th annual race benefits the Martha’s Vineyard Boys & Girls Club in Edgartown.