Pumpkin Run Set for Oct. 7 at Pioneers Park

The 16th annual Pumpkin Run (nebraskasportscouncil.com/PumpkinRun_Lincoln), a one-mile fun run for youth runners, is set for Saturday, October 7 at Pioneers Park in Lincoln. More than 50 schools are expected to be represented in what is believed to be the largest youth-only cross-country run in the nation.

Heats will be held every 20 minutes from 8:30 a.m. to 12:10 p.m. and are divided by grade and school size. Each runner receives a shirt, commemorative cup, Gatorade and granola bar along with certificates for free meals and two free games of bowling.

Last year, more than 3,400 kids participated, and 25 area schools earned awards for having at least 10% of their students participate.

The Pumpkin Run is conducted by the Nebraska Sports Council, with assistance from Lincoln Public Schools, Lincoln Parks and Recreation and the Lincoln Track Club. Allo Communications is the presenting partner, and major sponsors include Lincoln Pediatric Dentistry, Complete Chidlren’s Health and UNICO Group.

Those interested can register or find more information at NebraskaSportsCouncil.com.