Fall is way under way and the brisk mornings make for perfect 5K running weather. This morning I had the chance to run The Great Pumpkin Run at Crumland Farms. I typically only run a few 5k runs each year so I choose them very carefully and this race had everything I look for and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a fun 5k!

Easy parking! The parking is on the field not far from the start line. Getting into the parking lot took about 5 -10 minutes with traffic and the parking attendant volunteers were efficient and kept the line moving. Parking does cost $10, which isn’t included in your registration fees.

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Same-day bib pick-up! The race offers bib pick up the day prior to the race at a local restaurant but we chose to pick it up the morning of. Be aware that the lines were long and if you plan on doing picking it up same day you should plan on 20-30 minutes to get your bib.

Smart starting line waves! When you register for the race, you can select your wave start time. The first wave started at 10:00 am and new waves went every 5 minutes. The last official wave start was at 10:35 am but they added three extra waves due to people still getting their bibs. I chose 10:05 am wave start and there was plenty of room between us and the first wave.

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A fun course! We ran through corn mazes, on dirt roads, grassy paths, and all around the farm. The trail was wide enough so you could pass comfortably or run with a few of your running buddies. The course is a little more rocky than a road race but I’d consider it an easy technical course.

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Fun thindsc_0576gs around the farm to keep the family busy while you run! My kiddo had fun playing on the slides, seeing the goats, and playing on the farm equipment.
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A nicely designed finisher’s medal and fun swag! Registration included a tech long sleeve or sweater, free pumpkin, and free apple cider. There were also a few food vendors and Pivot Physical Therapy supporting the race.

 

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Would you run with a pumpkin? I did not choose to do so but the race also has a fun challenge of running the race with a pumpkin- You get an extra medal and are considered a tough pumpkin!

 

[Tweet “With apple cider, pumpkins, & a great course, The Great Pumpkin Run is one to put on the future race list!”]