NORTHFIELD — Come Saturday, Northfield residents will see ghosts, ghouls and goblins racing down their town streets during the fifth annual Monster Dash 5K.
Walkers, runners and bicyclists who participate in the 5K dress up in the spirit of Halloween for the chance to win costume prizes, while at the same time raising money for the First Parish of Northfield Unitarian Church.
Race Director Terry McKeon started the 5K in 2011. As both a physical therapist and a member of the church, McKeon wanted to host a healthy event that would support the church.
“I wanted our community to have a fun race and inspire kids to get active as well,” he said.
McKeon said the race had about 20 participants in its first year, growing to have nearly 90 in 2015. Participants come from Northfield and its surrounding towns as well as from Vermont and New Hampshire.
“It’s a beautiful course,” McKeon said, adding that the 5K gives participants a chance to appreciate the fall foliage. “They love the small New England houses as they go by.”
Walkers, runners and cyclists will start at Northfield Town Hall at 9 a.m. and make their way in a loop along Warwick Road, Maple Street, East Street, St. Mary’s Street, Birnam Road and School Street, finishing back at Town Hall. McKeon noted that all runners take a detour — to festive Monster Dash music — through St. Mary’s Cemetery.
“Most people are in it for the fun, not for the time,” McKeon said. “Northfield is a small town and with 100 people gathering in costumes, it’s fun to see it busy.”
Through entry fees each year, the 5K raises about $1,000 for the First Parish of Northfield Unitarian, Northfield’s oldest church. McKeon said the funds are used to cover the church’s operating costs as well as repairs to the historic building.
“There’s always something in that old church that needs attention,” he said.
Entry fees are $19 per person or $32 for a family up to five. Middle and high school cross country team members will be charged $10. Each participant receives a Monster Dash travel mug and children under 12 receive a T-shirt.
McKeon said the event attracts many local sponsors who donate gift certificates and prizes. There are prizes for youth participants, best costumes, and the top three male and female participants.
Plus, immediately after the race and a brief awards ceremony, participants travel to the First Parish of Northfield Unitarian for a breakfast of pancakes, bacon, eggs and fresh fruit.
Those interested in participating can register online at bit.ly/2elOISZ or in person by arriving to Town Hall between 7:30 and 8:50 a.m. the morning of the Monster Dash.