Pennings Farm Market hosts first annual Mad Apple Dash
WARWICK It was billed as a 5K run, a distance normally dwarfed by marathons and longer races. But when its an obstacle course on steep hills and takes place in the middle of a heat wave with the temperature close to 100 degrees Fahrenheit, its a real challenge.
The first annual Mad Apple Dash 5k run and fund raiser took place July 7 on the farm behind the popular Pennings Farm Market at 161 Route 94 South in Warwick.
Fortunately, after the finish line, there were cold drinks, food, music and time to socialize and relax at the awards ceremony held in the Markets new beer garden.
Both beginners and more experienced runners, individuals and teams, ran up and down Pennings Farm from 11 a.m. to noon while overcoming various obstacles. And with the help of Warwick Valley High School track coach Mike Potter everyone was encouraged to give it his or her best to finish.
The challenge was comprised of both individuals and teams. And teams had to finish together as one. So, for example, four dashers on a team would have to all finish at the same time. The event also included individual and team costume contests.
In addition to Pennings Farm Market, other sponsors of the event were FAS Training, a fitness studio at 317 Route 94 South and the Warwick Valley High School Track Club.
There were 110 finishers and proceeds of approximately $2,000 from the event will be used for donations to the Warwick Volunteer Ambulance Corps and to help support the Warwick Valley High School boys and girls track teams.
Organizers are already planning for next years second Mad Apple Dash.