SPRINGFIELD – Dinosaurs, doughnuts, and beachy witches went for a run around the Public House in Springfield last Sunday. Lane Council of Governments’ Senior and Disability Services division hosted its annual “A Race for the Rest of Us,” fundraiser for their senior meals programs.
The race was approximately a third of a mile in length, taking place on a flat surface, and was suitable for all skill levels.
Marisa Andrews, contracts and community program manager for senior and disability services, said that staff members usually dress up for the event in fun costumes, and this year extended the invitation to runners.
Erica Thessen, a hospital worker, ran dressed as a doughnut, and David Milam wore a dinosaur costume. Some LCOG staff members came up with a “sand-witches” theme and wore witchy attire with pool floaties and tropical accessories.
All the contestants finished the 0.5k in around 10 minutes. They started on the corner of 4th and B streets in Springfield, on the back corner of the PublicHouse. Then, they made their way down to 7th St. and turned onto A St. to finish through a colorful balloon arch back at the PublicHouse.
For his third year participating, Brandon Butchko finished in first place in under four and a half minutes.
“Meals on Wheels is quite an important service for our population, so it’s nice to get some exposure for them,” Butchko said.
Joana Munsen finished in second place in her first year at the LCOG event and her first race ever.
Medals were awarded to finishers as well as donuts from Voodoo Doughnut. PublicHouse also offered discounted food and drinks to participants after the race.
