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Waltham YMCA’s Pumpkin Dash gets families moving

Winners of the Best Group Costume Prize, form left: Simon Davies, Matthew Manter, Heath Herchenbach, Anneke Herchenbach, Chloe Manter and Henry Davies. Photo by Colleen Brennan.

The Waltham YMCA 5K Pumpkin Dash and Family Fest held on Oct. 18 offered fun for everyone in the family on a perfect New England fall day. 

Around 150 runners and walkers included entire families and several mother-daughter and father-son teams as well as individuals of all ages. Participants competed for prizes in various categories of race time and best costumes.

The event is one of a series of races sponsored by the Greater Boston YMCA as it celebrates its 175th anniversary.  The Together We Move Campaign challenges YMCA members to improve their health and well-being while building community. Proceeds from the race benefit the YMCA Chronic Disease Prevention Program including Livestrong at the YMCA.

After the race, families enjoyed music, pumpkin painting, games and a bouncy house, while adults relaxed in a beer garden hosted by Mighty Squirrel. Healthy snacks and lunch were served for all. The crowd thanked the Waltham YMCA staff and advisory board members for the successful day.

The art table. Photo by Colleen Brennan.
And they’re off! Photo by Colleen Brennan.
The Potter family. Photo by Colleen Brennan.
Anna Gunther with her veterinarian outfit won the Kids’ Best Costume prize. Photo by Colleen Brennan.
Father-son team Drew and Warren Browne. Photo by Colleen Brennan.
Scarlett Jekic took first place for women. Jacob Sweet won in the men’s division. Photo by Colleen Brennan.
Mother-daughter team Ella and Shayna Sarosiek. Photo by Colleen Brennan.
School Committee member James Zanghi. Photo by Colleen Brennan.
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Author

Retired educator and Waltham resident since 2021, Colleen is happy to be part of a team bringing news and information to the people of Waltham to strengthen and enliven the civic and cultural life in our city.