Get ready to chase the pumpkin

GLADSTONE - Several races have been slated this fall in Gladstone and each will benefit local charities, children or veterans.

Dan Paul, race coordinator, announced the dates of five races. The Chase the Pumpkin Race on Oct. 25, Veterans Memorial Race on Nov. 8, the Turkey Trot on Nov. 27, Santa Boogie on Dec. 13 and the Resolution Run on New Year's Day.

Paul began running eight years ago at the age of 48. As a former teacher and administrator for Gladstone Schools, he has been an educator for more than 30 years.

"Throughout the course of my time as an educator and an administrator, I ran into a lot of needy people and needy children. There's always been a (goal) in my life of wanting to help others and I found my niche at this point in my life," he said.

This is the second annual Chase the Pumpkin race, a 5K run/walk and 10K run to benefit the U.P. Diabetic Association. Paul said the proceeds for the races will mainly go to children in the area with diabetes for them to go to Bay Cliff Health Camp.

Paul mentioned Dwight Seeger was co-chair for the Chase the Pumpkin Race.

"Without his support this would not be possible. He's doing most of the organizing on this," said Paul.

Registration for the race is at 8:30 a.m., and runners start at 10 a.m. Oct. 25 on Delta Avenue near the Knights of Columbus, then run to 8th Street and on to North Lake Shore Drive. The K of C has donated the use of its hall for a reception afterwards.

Last year, the event raised $1,200, said Paul. Entry fear is $15 for U.P. Road Runners, and $17 for all others, before Oct. 15. Included in the price is a long sleeve t-shirt. After Oct. 15, the rate for all people will be $20. A family rate of $40 is available.

The Veterans Memorial run Saturday, Nov. 8, will be used to benefit veterans in Gladstone. The race coordinator is Jason Fudala, 428-1776.

Money raised during the Turkey Trot on Nov. 27 will go to St. Vincent de Paul, Salvation Army and other local food banks. Last year, Paul said the race raised more than $650 and hundreds of pounds of food donations. The race begins at the Gladstone Beach House. Paul has a turkey costume that he will wear in the race. Entry fee is canned food or monetary donation.

The Santa Boogie on Saturday, Dec. 13, follows the same route as the Turkey Trot. People are required to bring presents that are unwrapped as an entry fee. The gifts will go to St. Vincent and the Salvation Army, who will then distribute them to local needy children. Paul said last year a number of people showed up dressed as Santa Claus and other characters. People are encouraged to dress up again this year.

The Resolution Run is on New Year's Day, in the Tipperary area near Paul's home and again will benefit local food banks.

The Gladstone Snowshoe Shuffle 5K run/walk is also coming in February. Dates will be announced at a later time.

Mayor Tom Sinnaeve said he was happy the races are back this year and growing in number.

"I think these races all go toward excellent causes in the community - they support children and the needy and veterans and the city is proud to be involved," said Sinnaeve.

Paul said he was happy to have found a way to give back to his community.

"Whatever I give, I get back 10-fold, that's what I've found in my life. I would not be able to do it without the support of the volunteers and a number of civic organizations helping out - it's turned into a community event," said Paul.

For more information on registration and race times and details, contact Dan Paul.

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