Submitted by Allison Behnke
(November 7, 2024) — Haddam-Killingworth Youth and Family Services is thrilled to share that the 31st Pumpkin Run was an incredible success!
“HKYFS was so proud to partner with individuals, groups, businesses, and organizations from all around to showcase what community is all about! Face painting, wellness games, costume contests, treats, and amazing race finishes were highlighted by smiling faces and people of all ages connecting and enjoying a beautiful Fall day,” said Alli Behnke, Director of Mental Health and Prevention.
Runners, spectators, sponsors, volunteers, and their pets started arriving at the Haddam Killingworth High School track, some in costume, to grab their bibs, and warm up for the 10:00 a.m. race. More than 400 participants signed up for the race, walk, and Kids Fun Run. The Pumpkin Run hasn’t attracted that many participants since before the COVID Pandemic and we can’t help but acknowledge the important role local schools, groups, and organizations had in cultivating energy and helping HKYFS make this a wonderful community event raising much needed funds.
Joe Gaudino, who provided the photo above, said, “The Gaudino family has taken part in numerous road races this year, but experience-wise none compared to the Pumpkin Run. With a great (and mostly flat!) course to a super-fun costume competition, we’ll be sure to add the Pumpkin Run to our calendar for years to come!”
The volunteer support was absolutely incredible, including many youth and adults from the HK community. All of HKYFS’ Girls on the Run Teen Mentors were present to volunteer at registration and on the course while also presenting homemade Top Finisher prizes with Team GOTR youth. HKYFS wants to recognize our Board of Directors, teen volunteers, parents, community members, and HK Cross Country Team for their time, energy, and motivation to support the work that we do.
After the 5k, there were two kids’ Fun Runs. There was a one-lap version (1/4 mile), and a two-lap version (1/2 mile). Seventy-two children participated with many laughs and lots of joy! All race participants received a finisher medal designed by HK youth, Hayes Perley.
Haddam-Killingworth Youth and Family Services would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all our participants, race sponsors, volunteers, runners, board members, and town officials who came out to support the Pumpkin Run and the work of the agency to support youth and families.
5K Results
Top three male finishers:
- Coby Emshwiller, age 38, 18:38
- Josh Teixeria, age 20, 19:00
- Ross Hanson, 20:08
Top three female finishers:
- Addison Reed, age 16, 20:40
- Laura Christoph, age 42, 20:58
- Shantell Hanson, age 33, 23:05
HK Youth and Family Services would like to thank the following sponsors and donors:
Title Sponsors:
Nutmeg Pharmacy
Sensorworx
Kids Fun Run Sponsors:
Coach and Carol Dupuis
Mikes’ Auto Service
The Holmes Family
Jogger Sponsor:
Tanya Bottaro/The Huscher Group
Kelly Family Orthodontics
Demco, LLC Tower Labs
HK Health and Fitness
The Hartford
New Image Auto
Northeast Diesel
Walker Sponsor:
Fireworks Hearth and Home
Dutch Oil and Propane
Higganum Hardware
Hillcrest Agency
Jack’s Country Restaurant
Killingworth Pharmacy
Langer Landscapes
RWC, LLC Attorneys and Counselors at Law
Essex Savings Bank
Killingworth Dunkin Donuts D’Andrea Group
The Lee Company
Fish Tale- JJ Schreck, LLC
GSB
True Value Killingworth
Higganum Veterinary Clinic
Liberty Bank
Student Transportation of America
O’Connor-Sidlow Family
East Coast Precision Manufacturing
Lexi’s Place Farm
Roberts Food Center
Connecticut Rental Center
