The Runaway Pumpkin Half Marathon takes place on Saturday, October 17, 2015!
I’ve had the pleasure of participating in the Runaway Pumpkin Half Marathon three times. It is an absolutely incredible event. Not only is it a benefit for ABC House … not only does the race have a costume contest … not only does the race cater to super-fast participants and walkers alike … not only does the race a fitness center/company/corporate team challenge … but the course is amazing, the volunteers are spectacular, the finisher medal is lovely, the event shirt is one-of-a-kind, and the post-race festivities are superb.
I love participating in events that are a benefit for something. Runaway Pumpkin Half Marathon offers 100% of the race proceeds to benefit the ABC House, which “provides a safe, respectful, healing environment for children who have been abused. One location providing coordinated services for children and their non-offending family members.”
Race details! Runaway Pumpkin Half Marathon takes place on Saturday, October 17, 2015, with a start time of 9 a.m. The start and finish line are located at Weirich Drive at Cheadle Lake Park in Lebanon. The race course is one of my all-time favorites. The race follows the river, winding through quiet, rural countryside and quaint neighborhoods. Aid stations are frequent (7 aid stations!) and fully stocked, with the best volunteers I have ever experienced at a race. Also, you’ll stay safe on the roadways and at intersections thanks to the awesome volunteers who are stationed with their motorcycles. Having raced many, many years now in over 100 different events, I always tell runners that you have to run this race because the bikers and volunteers are exceptional.
May I present to you the BEST volunteers I have ever encountered at a race! They are found at the Runaway Pumpkin Half Marathon event, and they have been helping with the event going on 4 years!
All abilities are welcome! The half marathon has a 4.5 hour time limit, so this is a very walker friendly event. Baby joggers and strollers are allowed, just start in the back for safety reasons. Prior to the race, there is a Halloween themed (pumpkins especially welcome!) costume contest. The costumes I have seen at Runaway Pumpkin Half Marathon are some of the best ever. The post race festivities will include an array of post-race food and refreshments, including some gluten free options this year! The top male and female finisher will receive a $250 gift card to Lowe’s, and award, and a free entry into the 2016 event. The youngest and oldest participant will also receive special recognition. And, awards will be presented to the top three finishers in each age group for male and female.
Technical event shirt is included with your race registration if you register by October 11. Definitely get registered, and don’t miss the Runaway Pumpkin Half Marathon. I can’t tell you just how very much I love this event! Check out the race video from 2014, too! Also, virtual runners are welcome!
Date: Saturday, October 17, 2015
Distance: Half marathon
Start Time: 9 a.m.
Cost: $67 until 10/5, then $72 until 10/14.
Register: Click here to register
