5K Run/Walk and Fallbrook Land Conservancy Open House a Success

More than 100 walkers and runners showed up on Saturday, 24 April to enjoy a beautiful spring day at the Fallbrook Land Conservancy’s Open House and 5k Fun Run/Walk. People from as far as San Diego, Riverside, and even ENGLAND came to Fallbrook to enjoy our perfect weather and connect with nature.

The goal of the event, “to foster fellowship and share an appreciation of the natural world around us”, was realized as participants walked the grounds of Palomares House and jogged or strolled through the gently rolling hills of Los Jilgueros Preserve.

“It wasn’t about money or fund-raising”, said organizer Megan Gamble. “It was about friendship, education, and community spirit.”

Community spirit included the involvement of the North San Diego County Association of Realtors (NSDCAR). 15 local agents, affiliates and family members helped at the event, providing route control along the side streets and within the Preserve. “We loved supporting the Fallbrook Land Conservancy because of their value to our village” said Craig Griffin from NSDCAR. “We are constantly looking for ways to give back to Fallbrook and the Land Conservancy made this opportunity available – it was fun. And we got a chance to learn more about the substantial role they have played in preserving open spaces.”

Before the run, Kat Folger helped the crowd warm up with stretches and laughter. The mood was joyful as the crowd ambled to the start of the run, wearing the graphic T-shirts provided by Ultragraphix. Runners left first, with walkers starting a few minutes later, winding through the neighborhood behind Palomares House. Manny Ortega with the Sheriff’s Department Volunteer Senior Patrol provided route safety through the quiet streets.

Thanks to Duane & Susie Urquhart, the route cut through the Peppertree development open space, accessing Los Jilgueros Preserve from the north. The recent rains have kept the ponds full with coots, ducks, and egrets in residence. Wildflowers are in bloom throughout the preserve, to the delight of the walkers. On hand in the preserve were Jan & Gary Beeler, volunteer docents and members of the FLC’s Native Plant & Wildflower team. Jan & Gary answered questions about the restoration of native flora and the importance of native habitat within the preserve.

A highlight of the 5K was having sculptor Stuart Tucker on hand at Los Jilgueros Preserve to talk about his soaring bronze statue located on the hill overlooking the ponds and garden area. The sculpture, “Siempre Aspirando,” or “Always Aspiring,” in honor of Pamela van der Linden’s indomitable spirit, was created and installed in 1992 through a commission from Pam’s daughter Jean Schulz, who donated the land for Los Jilgueros Preserve to the FLC in 1990. Many walkers stopped to linger and talk to the artist about the sculpture and enjoy the scenery from the hilltop.

“It was a gorgeous day”, said Karen Jenkins, 5K run/walk coordinator. "The smiles on the faces of runners and walkers returning to Palomares House gave evidence of the benefits of spending the morning with nature. It was especially gratifying to see families participate."