Tear up the track at the Michigan State University Museum's annual MSU Federal Credit Union Dinosaur Dash on Oct. 6.
The fast, flat 5K race is a fall favorite and a long-time benefit for the MSU Museum’s educational programs. Meanwhile, a full line-up of activities makes for family fun.
Dashers compete in several different divisions and dinosaur trophies are awarded to overall male and female winners in both the running and walking categories. To help accommodate the large field of runners at this event in the Playmakers Greater Lansing Race Series, the first of two waves of runners will start at 9:30 a.m. (for those expected to finish in less than 30 minutes) in front of the MSU Museum, 409 W. Circle Drive.
Three special runs are designed for the younger crowd: the Museum Mile for youth 12 and under to run or walk a one-mile loop and the Mini-Dash; an all-out 200-yard sprint for kids 6 and under; and The Diaper Dash, designed for the youngest of dashers, along with their parents and companions. All participants receive an official Dinosaur Dash medal.
A children's carnival outdoors and dinosaur fun indoors round out the day's activities. The MSU Museum features the area's only full-mounted dinosaur casts, a Stegosaurus and Allosaurus, which provide the inspiration for the Dinosaur Dash.
Registration prices vary depending on age and T-shirt styles selected; participants can save $5 if they register by Sept. 23. All registration fees include a short-sleeved T-shirt, a walking clinic, post-race food, beverages and a donation that supports the MSU Museum's educational programs. (Shirt size and selection may be limited on race day.)
Registration forms are available at MSUFCU branches, Playmakers on Grand River Avenue in Okemos and at the MSU Museum.
For more details, contact the MSU Museum at (517) 432-4655 or email dinodash@museum.msu.edu.
Additional sponsors of this year's MSU Federal Credit Union Dinosaur Dash are Playmakers, 92.9FM-WLMI, Asics, Besco, Great Harvest Bread Company, Melting Moments, East Lansing Food Co-op and Larry Cushion Trophies and Engraving.