If you notice adults and children running down Bridge Street in costumes a few days before Halloween, you are witnessing the Vernonia Graveyard Dash, a walk or run race that took place for the first time on October 29, 2016.
This will be an annual event, so mark your calendars for next year and start thinking about your race costumes.
The 6K dash starts at the Vernonia Memorial Cemetery on Bridge Street and turns around at the Vernonia Pioneer Cemetery on Keasey Road.
The 3K dash starts at the Vernonia Memorial Cemetery and turns around at the Bridge Street bridge. This year, chip-timing and music were provided by Scovel Racing.
Twenty-two runners participated in the 2016 event sponsored by Hands on Art. Proceeds from the race benefit an Arts Scholarship at VHS. Chip-timing was provided by Scovel Racing.
Every runner received a swag bag with a glass commemorating the race. Cash prizes were awards for best costumes. As the race grows expect more prizes and fun.
Best Times:
6K Overall Men: Josh Fry 18:48:56
6K Overall Women: Amber-Dawn Ingwerson 31:01:80
3K Overall Men: Tim Becken 11:53:34
3K Overall Women: Hayley Espelund 13:06:90
Costume Winners:
Best Adult Costume – Hayley Espelund (I Love Lucy)
Best Under 16 Costume – MacKenzie Livengood (zombie)
Best Group Costume – Karina and Steve Stephenson (XMen)
Thank you to all runners and walkers and to Hands on Art volunteers who made the event a success!
