Run, run as fast as you can. The goons, goblins, inflatable dinosaurs, and dancing crayons are back for this fun, family-friendly Superior Nightmare 5K race. Coming to life right before the pandemic in 2019, the Superior Nightmare 5K is an all-age Halloween costume race.
In previous years, the 5K would start at the end of Tower Ave. But this year, the 5K will start & end at Wessman Arena.
Photo from Promethean File
Hosted by Grandmas Marathon, Duluth-Inc donates the proceeds to their affiliate charity, Young Athletes Foundation. The Foundation promotes the development of healthy and active lifestyles for youths in Carlton, Cook, Douglas, Lake, and St. Louis Counties. It’s scary-good revenue then goes directly into creating grants, shoe certificates, scholarships, etc., for those communities.
Zach Schneider, marketing and public relations director at Grandmas Marathon said, “We have athletic organizations and non-profit organizations within those five counties that can apply for grants. They can apply for grant money once every two years, whether they need help covering registration costs for families or updating their equipment or facilities.”
The event is held on Oct 26 at 11:00 a.m., starting and finishing at Wessman Arena on Catlin Avenue. “The whole goal of the Young Athletes Foundation is to provide opportunities for kids in those five counties to live healthier and active lifestyles. So the running shoe program is another way for us to help the kids that need it, so they can participate in those varsity sports and then hopefully continue those healthy habits into adulthood,” said Schneider.
The shoe program runs every fall for varsity cross-country teams and spring for varsity track and field teams within the five counties.
The Superior Nightmare 5K has even more tricks and treats up its sleeve. Haunted hijinks, more commonly referred to as residents’ homes decorated with extravagant Halloween décor, help the runners stay on the path. There’s even some trick-or-treating for small children and a kids’ race.
It’s a fun-filled day for running lovers and new beginners. With proceeds donated to the Young Athletes Foundation, the event supports communities in need. It’s heartening to see the efforts to provide opportunities for kids to live healthier lives through programs like the running shoe program. The addition of haunted hijinks and trick-or-treating makes it a delightful event for everyone.
