Third Annual Anthem Great Pumpkin 5k

The Third Annual Anthem Great Pumpkin 5k, a seasonal family orientated road race sponsored by Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, will hit the pavement on Saturday, October 8th, 2011 at 8:30 AM.  Taking place at the Reston Town Center in Northern Virginia, The Great Pumpkin 5k is open to participants of all fitness levels and ages. Attracting an estimated 4,000 participants, there will also be a number of other fall-based entertainment activities offered on the same day. For the children, a Kids Pumpkin Dash and pumpkin decorating contest will be held for all those under the age of 10. Following the 5k run, a “Scrambled Legs” Breakfast will be held, consisting of popular breakfast food. One of the most attractive features of The Great Pumpkin 5k is its partnership with the Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce’s Oktoberfest Reston.  The 3-day festival will feature the best in fall brews, German inspired dishes from area restaurants, and live entertainment.

 

“The goal of the Sports Alliance is to increase the quality of life for residents through the attraction and support of sporting events, while strengthening our sense of community in this region,” says Robert Sweeney, President of the Greater Washington Sports Alliance.  “Fairfax County is one of the fittest areas in our nation and Reston Town Center is one of the premier pedestrian friendly areas in Northern Virginia. Our desire is to continue encouraging the area residents to participate in healthy and active lifestyles through family friendly activities such as the Anthem Great Pumpkin 5k.”  

The Kids Pumpkin Dash gives children the opportunity to dress up in their favorite Halloween costume and sprint to the finish. The dash, typically between 100-400 yards, allows children to join in the healthy atmosphere of the event while also showing off their Halloween best. All children who sign up for the event will receive a race bib, winners ribbon and take home a complimentary pumpkin.

Proceeds from this year’s Anthem Great Pumpkin 5k race will benefit the YMCA Fairfax County Reston.