Building upon the lessons learned from its first 5K Run/Walk at Tarrywile Park last fall, Danbury Youth Services is back with a bigger event — and this time it will offer more than a foot race.
The first change is that the 2017 DYS 5K Trail Run/Walk will take place entirely within Tarrywile Park, on moderate terrain that ranges from wide grassy paths to narrow dirt trails. Last year’s event was a road race.
The second change is the addition of children's activities, a live DJ, and some of Greater Danbury's best food trucks.
The race will begin at 8 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 6, near the red barn at the park. A Kids’ Fun Run will follow at 9:30 a.m.
Local DJ Chase Caldwell of One Plug Entertainment will provide music and race commentary, while kids can decorate pumpkins, get their faces painted, watch a friendly clown twist balloon animals, or do arts and crafts while they wait for runners to cross the finish line. The festival will continue until 11 a.m., allowing runners to partake of refreshment to include complimentary fresh fruit and KIND bars, as well as the all-natural frozen treats and heartier fare offered by food vendors. Local businesses and organizations will also be on hand to offer services and discounts to the public.
A nonprofit organization designated as the youth services bureau for the City of Danbury, DYS offers several positive youth-development programs as well as a licensed psychiatric clinic. The agency serves all youth and families in Danbury, and many of its services are offered at no or little cost. Its mission is to strengthen youth and families by offering support, fostering hope, and teaching the skills necessary to lead positive and productive lives.
“Danbury Youth Services plays a vital role in our community by providing children an opportunity to live and lead a successful and healthy life. We appreciate everything they do for our community, and are proud to support such a great program,” said Dan Berta, president of Fairfield County Bank.
Other 5K sponsors include drug-prevention advocacy group Stand Together Make a Difference; Wells Fargo; Praxair; ShurShot Gunite Pools; Lion’s Paw & Co.; and Ericson Insurance.
Online registration is live at danburyyouthservices.org through Oct. 6 at a reduced fee of $35 per runner. Registration by mail is $40 per runner. Race-day registration will begin at 7 a.m. at a cost of $45 per runner. Kids’ Fun Run registration is $10 per child at any time.
Electronic and printable registration forms are available at danburyyouthservices.org. A route map is also posted on the website. Runners will pick up their packets on race day, from 7 a.m. to 7:45 a.m. at Tarrywile Park.
To learn more about DYS or to make a contribution, please visit www.danburyyouthservices.org or call (203) 748-2936.